Accelera demonstrates the future of clean hydrogen technology with record breaking journey

In a groundbreaking achievement for the future of hydrogen-powered solutions, Accelera™ by Cummins has set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the longest distance traveled by a hydrogen fuel cell electric (FCEV) heavy-duty truck without refueling. Accelera’s zero-emissions H2Rescue truck, a Kenworth T370 prototype designed for emergency response missions, completed an 1,806-mile journey on a single fill on Oct. 25, showcasing the potential of hydrogen technology for zero-emissions transportation and on-site portable power.

The carbon-free journey
The truck completed its record-setting journey in central California and was closely monitored and validated by an adjudicator from Guinness World Records who confirmed the truck’s hydrogen tank was sealed before the journey began. Powered by an Accelera fuel cell engine and a 250kW traction motor, the truck carried 175 kilograms of onboard hydrogen and consumed 168 kilograms of hydrogen while navigating rush hour traffic, between 50 to 55 mph, on public roads, operating in temperatures varying from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Over the 1,800-mile trip, the hydrogen-filled truck emitted zero pounds of carbon dioxide, a stark contrast to the 664 pounds a standard internal combustion engine vehicle would have produced over the same distance.

A demonstration vehicle like the H2Rescue prototype truck showcases the capabilities of using zero-emissions hydrogen, rather than diesel, for power. Hydrogen as a power source:

• Supports long-range applications with heavy-duty work cycles, like heavy-duty trucks, dump trucks, buses and rail systems
• Generates little to no noise
• Provides zero-emissions power, with water and steam as the only byproducts, making it a key solution for reducing transportation pollution

Partnering for progress
Annually, a fuel cell-powered truck of this size can displace approximately 1,825 gallons of fuel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 2.5 metric tons. This Class 7 heavy-duty demonstration vehicle, weighing approximately 33,000 pounds, is the result of an innovative collaboration between Accelera, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

“This world record is a triumph for interagency collaboration and proof that hydrogen is a viable alternative fuel for vehicles,” said Nicholas Josefik, Industrial Engineer at the U.S Army Engineer Research and Development Center. “By using hydrogen, we can improve our Nation’s energy security and reliability.”

The H2Rescue demonstration truck offers several benefits for disaster relief sites and can power 20 to 25 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) trailers, support shelters or homes for up to 72 hours without refueling.

“H2Rescue's successful completion of this record-setting evaluation demonstrates the strength of interagency collaboration and public private partnerships,” said Eric Wasiloff, Project Manager with the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center. “We look forward to transitioning lessons learned throughout this project to future fuel cell systems and joint efforts.”

Advancing hydrogen technology
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is gaining traction in the heavy-duty and medium-duty trucking industries due to its long driving range, fast refueling times and zero emissions. As the transportation sector moves away from fossil fuels, Accelera’s fuel cell engines provide the power needed for long-haul routes while significantly reducing environmental impact.

This record-setting achievement underscores the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology in revolutionizing the transportation industry and paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.