TR Group has officially launched its first 50-tonne hydrogen-powered prime mover at a showcase event at Hampton Downs, marking a major milestone in the company’s push to decarbonise New Zealand’s heavy transport sector.
The new hydrogen truck — based on a DAF CF 530 and converted by Christchurch-based Global Bus Ventures (GBV) — offers a zero-emissions alternative for heavy freight, with comparable refuelling times and operating performance to diesel models.
“In other words, this hydrogen fuel cell truck can operate like a conventional diesel truck — just without the emissions,” TR Group says.
The launch comes after the heavy truck leasing and rental company restructured its hydrogen fleet rollout following the collapse of its original agreement with US-based Hyzon Motors, which went into administration in mid-2024.
TR Group has since signed new purchase agreements, with GBV and Hyundai New Zealand now supplying the 20 planned hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), supported by government funding via the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).
The GBV-built prime mover features two Toyota 85kW fuel cells (170kW total), a 124kWh battery, and 52kg of onboard hydrogen storage, delivering up to 500km of range depending on driving conditions. A 350kW/2400Nm electric motor paired with a six-speed gearbox provides ample pulling power for commercial use.
TR Group general manager Brendan King says the company is excited to grow its hydrogen fleet, building on the successful deployment of its first Hyundai Xcient fuel cell truck with NZ Post in 2022. That vehicle has already clocked more than 180,000km and avoided 201 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
“Having been on the decarbonisation journey for several years now, and with over 60 battery-electric trucks and New Zealand’s first commercial heavy hydrogen truck we are delighted further to expand our hydrogen truck options for our customers,” King says.
The rollout includes 16 hydrogen 50-tonne prime movers and four Hyundai Xcient FCEV rigid trucks. TR Group is also partnering with CH2NGE Fuel Technologies, a division of H.W. Richardson Group, to deliver several dual-fuel trucks capable of running on both diesel and hydrogen.
These hybrid units offer up to 40% carbon reduction while retaining the ability to operate entirely on diesel when hydrogen is not available.
GBV, which has more than 50 years’ experience building heavy vehicles in New Zealand, has been at the forefront of electric and hydrogen innovation. The company built New Zealand’s first hydrogen bus for Auckland Transport in 2021 and was selected as the hydrogen system integrator for Emirates Team New Zealand’s chase boats.
The trucks produced under the revised agreement maintain the technical specifications originally proposed with Hyzon.
“This prime mover represents several years of R&D, making its launch into commercial operation a significant milestone for the company,” GBV executive vice president Mike Parker says.
Toyota New Zealand, a key partner in the truck’s hydrogen system, says the project fits squarely within its global decarbonisation strategy.
“Toyota’s ongoing work with hydrogen technology in New Zealand aligns with its global commitment to carbon neutrality,” chief executive Tatsuya Ishikawa says.
“From heavy-duty commercial vehicles to hydrogen-powered marine vessels and off-grid generators, Toyota is demonstrating that hydrogen is more than just a fuel—it’s a key part of the clean energy future.”
Hydrogen fuel for the trucks is supplied by Hiringa Energy, with three commercial refuelling stations currently operational in Te Rapa, Wiri, and Palmerston North. A fourth site is under development in Tauriko. Customers are billed on a usage basis at $16.50 per kilogram, with costs expected to fall as volumes increase.
“Hydrogen is ultra-fast, reliable and available now,” Hiringa chief executive Andrew Clennett says.
“The Hiringa refuelling network covers 95% of North Island freight routes, allowing transport operators to reduce carbon emissions without impacting productivity. This meets the growing customer demand for decarbonised supply chains.”
TR Group says green hydrogen is currently the only zero-emissions solution available that matches the operating pattern of diesel trucks.
“A driver of a hydrogen truck can start a 12-hour shift, drive for 5.5 hours, take a driver break, then drive for another 5.5 hours. With a quick 15-minute refuel as needed, a driver swap allows the cycle to repeat—ensuring continuous, efficient operation.
“Our hydrogen truck options are here, they have a fuel network that works, and you can use them in the same way as a traditional diesel truck – just without the emissions.”
