Performance Food Group has agreed to buy five fuel-cell electric trucks from Hyzon Motors, a supplier of zero-emission heavy-duty fuel cell electric vehicles. And it could be up to 50.

The FCEVs will be powered by Hyzon’s proprietary fuel-cell system, developed and designed for heavy-duty freight transport. The technology allows customers to transition their fleets to zero-emissions, while maintaining similar operating characteristics.

The first five trucks, upfitted with Hyzon’s 110kW fuel cell system, are expected to be delivered in 2023 and 2024, with the first truck scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. PFG plans to deploy these trucks in its regional, commercial delivery operations in Southern California.

Launching with the 110kW vehicles allows PFG to begin the crucial work of decarbonization starting this year, while building driver familiarity with new vehicle technology and delivering operational data to Hyzon, according to the announcement.

If the trial of the 110kW trucks is a success, PFG will add another 15 upfitted with Hyzon’s next-generation 200kW fuel cell system.

Currently in development, Hyzon’s 200kW FCEV will offer the power to tackle steep grades and highway speeds over long distances, according to the company. Instead of the common approach of linking two 110kW fuel cell systems to generate 200kW, Hyzon will provide a single 200kW fuel cell module, reducing cost, weight, and complexity.

Following the initial deliveries, PFG and Hyzon also will work together on a deal for 30 additional FCEVs.

PFG’s agreement follows a successful 2022 vehicle trial, during which PFG deployed a Hyzon 110kW FCEV in its commercial operations in Southern California. PFG currently runs a fleet of more than 7,000 heavy-duty trucks across North America.

All vehicles will be delivered through, and contingent upon, California’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Incentive Program (HVIP), which provides up to $240,000 in price subsidies.

“PFG remains committed to implementing new technologies that help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint,” said Jeff Williamson, senior vice president, operations, PFG, in a news release. “As we increase our exploration into alternative fuels and low-carbon technologies, partnering with companies like Hyzon provides us access to advanced products and services that will help us improve our transportation infrastructure.”

“Hyzon’s proprietary fuel cell technology is specifically suited for applications such as food and beverage, characterized by heavier loads and long usage cycles,” said Parker Meeks, Hyzon’s chief executive officer. “This agreement for up to 50 hydrogen-powered trucks demonstrates how Hyzon intends to build customer familiarity with a new technology as the hydrogen infrastructure accelerates."