WEDZ's hydrogen energy industry thrives

The H49 hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck undergoes high-temperature testing in Turpan, Xinjiang. [Photo/WeChat account of whkfq]

Guangzhou Hybot Co established its Wuhan R&D Center in the Wuhan Economic & Technological Development Zone (WEDZ) in 2021. Since then, a team of over 100 researchers has been working tirelessly, resulting in the launch of the world's first hydrogen fuel cell heavy-duty truck. 

Developed from the ground up for long-haul logistics, the H49 heavy-duty truck has made significant breakthroughs in efficiency, range, reliability, and advanced intelligent driving. Under a full load of 49 metric tons at high speeds, the truck's hydrogen consumption is as low as 8 kilograms per 100 kilometers, setting a global record for gaseous hydrogen-powered trucks with a range exceeding 1,000km. Sun Ying, CEO of Hybot, said that the truck is scheduled for small-scale delivery by the end of the year. 

Sun added that Hybot has established a comprehensive ecosystem for designing, developing, producing, and applying hydrogen-fuel commercial vehicles. Their product lineup includes the 49-ton long-haul hydrogen fuel cell truck, the 18-ton intercity fuel cell truck, and the 4.5-ton fuel cell light-duty cold chain logistics vehicle. Their products effectively cover most long-haul logistics and urban delivery scenarios.

Sun highlighted that the Wuhan R&D Center will focus on developing new platforms and product adaptability, tackling core technologies such as fuel cell systems, commercial electric drive vehicle characteristics, and hydrogen storage systems. 

Sun also disclosed that Hybot plans to establish a subsidiary in WEDZ within the year, making it Central China regional headquarters, mainly due to the zone's complete hydrogen industrial chain.

WEDZ is concentrating on the hydrogen industry chain, attracting nearly 20 leading enterprises, including Cummins and State Power Investment Corporation Hydrogen Energy. The zone has built four hydrogen refueling stations and deployed nearly 300 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, forming an initial chain encompassing basic components, fuel cells, vehicles, and demonstration operations.