DHL Global Forwarding has joined forces with Saudi-based hydrogen mobility innovator Hyperview to launch a pioneering pilot project aimed at testing hydrogen-powered trucks in the Kingdom. The collaboration marks a significant step toward decarbonizing logistics in one of the world’s most dynamic industrial hubs.
Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the companies have initiated a three-month Proof of Concept (PoC) to test the HTO2.1, a hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck, along designated logistics routes in Jubail. The trial will assess the truck’s performance under extreme temperature and operational demands—conditions typical to the region and relevant to DHL’s supply chain requirements.
Hydrogen Truck Hits the Road
Fully funded by DHL, the pilot aims to evaluate the HTO2.1’s efficiency, cost viability, and emissions reduction capabilities. Engineered specifically for long-haul transport, the vehicle features Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, advanced lidar and radar systems, predictive eco-driving software, and aerodynamic enhancements that collectively improve energy efficiency by up to 10%.
“The future of freight relies on a technology-neutral approach,” said Sue Donoghue, CEO KSA at DHL Global Forwarding. “By piloting hydrogen and other alternative fuels, we aim to identify scalable solutions that help reduce the environmental impact of road transportation—particularly for long-haul routes.”
A Case for Green Hydrogen
The HTO2.1 can carry up to 45 tonnes and is designed to travel approximately 450 kilometers on a single hydrogen refill. Emitting only water vapor, the truck could ultimately run on green hydrogen—offering the potential for a 100% cut in greenhouse gas emissions. DHL, which operates over 700 rental vehicles in Saudi Arabia, is also using the trial to evaluate the feasibility of establishing local hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
“Partnering with DHL is a critical step toward demonstrating how hydrogen-powered logistics can contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s climate goals,” said Feilong Liu, CEO of Hyperview. “This PoC allows us to validate both the technology and the infrastructure needed to scale hydrogen freight.”
A Glimpse Into the Future of Clean Freight
As the Middle East ramps up its clean energy and sustainability initiatives, hydrogen-powered vehicles are increasingly being viewed as a solution to the limitations of battery-electric alternatives in heavy transport. If successful, the DHL-Hyperview pilot could serve as a catalyst for broader adoption—unlocking investment in hydrogen production, refueling stations, and low-emission fleet conversions.
By testing hydrogen trucks under real-world logistics conditions, DHL is not only advancing its own sustainability goals but also helping shape the future of freight transport across the region and beyond.
