In Europe, the first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are already being introduced. The vehicle portfolio will dramatically expand beginning in the mid-2020s, with at least 60,000 trucks estimated to be in operation by 2030.
However, the infrastructure required to recharge these fuel-cell trucks is nearly non-existent today. Due to their increased power and energy requirements, heavy-duty trucks are unable to utilize current infrastructure designed for automobiles.
As explained in the new ACEA position paper on truck infrastructure standards, this issue requires immediate attention. As part of the assessment of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Directive, policymakers must take measures to enable a quick rollout of infrastructure (AFID).
Indeed, the EU should establish a target of approximately 300 truck-compatible hydrogen refueling stations by 2025, and at least 1,000 by 2030. Additionally, by 2030, one hydrogen refueling station should be available every 200 kilometers along the TENT core network. A hydrogen truck refueling station should have a daily capacity of at least six tonnes of hydrogen and a minimum of two dispensers.
To ensure that the appropriate number of hydrogen refueling stations is available throughout the EU by 2025 and 2030, enforceable targets should be established for each member state.
