HydroFleet, a hydrogen specialist, is investing $33 million in a new production and fueling facility for heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell trucks in Pooler, Georgia, just 10 miles from the bustling Port of Savannah. This strategic location aims to capitalize on the port’s high volume of truck traffic and growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions.
Initially, the facility will cater to 7-14 trucks daily, with plans to expand capacity to 50 trucks per day. This announcement comes on the heels of Hyundai Glovis America, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co.’s logistics arm, deploying 21 Hyundai Xcient hydrogen fuel-cell electric trucks for operations near Pooler. The synergy between these initiatives highlights a growing commitment to hydrogen-powered transportation in the region.
The Port of Savannah holds a significant position as the second-largest container gateway on the East Coast and the fourth-busiest in the US. Handling over 2.8 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in the latter half of 2024, the port experienced an 11.4% year-over-year increase in volume. This substantial traffic, coupled with approximately 3 million truck transactions in 2023, underscores the strategic importance of Pooler as a location for HydroFleet’s facility.
According to HydroFleet CEO Scott Moe, Pooler’s proximity to major interstates, the Port of Savannah, and potential fleet customers makes it an ideal hub for hydrogen fuel distribution. Recognizing the challenges faced by companies seeking cost-effective and comprehensive zero-emission solutions, HydroFleet aims to provide a complete hydrogen ecosystem through strategic partnerships and reliable technology. The company’s commitment to clean energy transition aligns with broader industry trends toward sustainable practices.
Replacing a single diesel-powered Class 8 truck with a hydrogen fuel cell equivalent can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 400 metric tons annually. When operating at full capacity, the Pooler facility has the potential to eliminate more than 40,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions from the Savannah area each year, significantly contributing to regional environmental sustainability efforts. This substantial reduction in carbon footprint reinforces the environmental benefits of transitioning to hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks. HydroFleet’s investment signifies a crucial step towards a cleaner transportation future, leveraging the strategic location of the Port of Savannah to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The initiative promises significant environmental and economic benefits for the region, paving the way for a more sustainable logistics landscape.
