On August 14, 2024, JAC Heavy Truck, in collaboration with Mingyang Hydrogen Energy Company, delivered the first hydrogen-powered A5X 4X2 model to China Post and the Tobacco Industry. This marks the first hydrogen-powered heavy truck to be officially put into operation in Anhui Province. The delivery is a significant milestone for the industry, contributing to the development of zero-emission logistics and transportation solutions.
In recent years, the Chinese government has introduced several strategic plans to promote hydrogen energy, including the “14th Five-Year Plan for Energy Technology Innovation,” the “Mid-to-Long-Term Plan for Hydrogen Energy Industry (2021-2035),” the “2024 Energy Work Guidance,” and the “Three-Year Action Plan for High-Quality Development of the Hydrogen Energy Industry in Anhui Province.” These policies have driven the hydrogen energy sector towards innovation and quality, helping it become a vital force in the country’s energy landscape.
JAC’s Innovation in Hydrogen-Powered Trucks
As a company with six decades of experience, JAC Group has consistently embraced innovation to stay ahead of industry trends. JAC Heavy Truck has been a proactive leader in promoting new energy technologies in commercial vehicles, aligning with China’s “Dual Carbon” strategy. Leveraging its expertise in hydrogen energy, JAC has teamed up with Mingyang Hydrogen Energy to develop the 18-ton A5X hydrogen fuel cell logistics truck.
This vehicle is built on JAC Heavy Truck’s mature product platform and features a 115kW high-performance fuel cell system developed by Mingyang Hydrogen Energy. It is equipped with four 320L large-capacity hydrogen storage tanks, allowing for a top speed of 89 km/h and a driving range of over 500 kilometers. The truck also boasts quick refueling, low noise, low hydrogen consumption, and high reliability, all while achieving “zero emissions” and “zero fuel consumption” during operation.
Market Growth and Future Prospects
The market for hydrogen-powered trucks is on the rise. In 2023, China’s hydrogen-powered heavy truck sales reached 3,653 units, representing a nearly 50% year-on-year growth. In the first half of 2024, sales of hydrogen-powered heavy trucks totaled 1,347 units, accounting for 54.1% of all hydrogen-powered vehicles sold. These figures underscore the growing demand and vast market potential for hydrogen-powered trucks.
The introduction of JAC’s A5X hydrogen fuel cell logistics truck effectively addresses industry pain points such as driving range, refueling time, environmental adaptability, and lifecycle costs. The truck is well-aligned with current policy directions and customer needs for cost-effective, green logistics solutions. It is expected to play a significant role in advancing the domestic hydrogen energy industry and promoting sustainable development.
JAC Heavy Truck has already completed its hydrogen energy product lineup and, together with its partners, has established a comprehensive, healthy, and sustainable hydrogen energy commercial vehicle supply chain, including fuel cells, core raw materials, and key components. Looking ahead, JAC plans to launch more high-quality hydrogen-powered heavy trucks with features such as fast refueling, long range, long lifespan, low hydrogen consumption, high safety, and full adaptability. These vehicles will provide customers with more efficient pathways for green transportation.
