Techno-economic assessment of hydrogen fuel-cell tractor semi-trailer
Exploratory research into the feasibility
Martijn Oostdam (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)
Bert van Wee – Mentor (TU Delft - Transport and Logistics)
Ivo Bouwmans – Mentor (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
Jan Anne Annema – Mentor (TU Delft - Transport and Logistics)
Stephan van Zyl – Mentor (TNO)
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Abstract
Hydrogen as an energy carrier is seen as an important option to reduce the CO2 emissions in the transport sector. However, limited research is done into the possibilities of using a hydrogen truck in freight road transport. This article considers the following question: Under which techno-economic boundary conditions a hydrogen fuel-cell tractor semi-trailer (hereafter called: hydrogen truck) is a feasible option for long-haul freight road transport in Europe? This paper uses a Total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to identify these conditions. While looking into the cost components of the TCO and comparing this with a diesel truck, the boundary conditions for feasibility arise. This thesis identifies three sorts of boundary conditions. First of all, the availability of hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS) and the deployment of the hydrogen truck. Secondly, the affordability (TCO) of a hydrogen truck is primarily determined by the economy of scale. The effects of this are the most influential for the production of hydrogen and the hydrogen truck. Thirdly, the most important robustness in operation boundary conditions are the hydrogen storage techniques and there fuelling speed. Insight in this assists in the creation of policy for zero-emission freight transport.