Vice president R&D2 and Head of H2 Factory Europe

In 2021, Toyota Motor Europe began searching for a partner to support the development of hydrogen-powered transport solutions for heavy-duty applications. As part of this ambition, Toyota set out to integrate its fuel cell technology into heavy-duty trucks, creating an alternative propulsion solution for future commercial transport applications.

Because fuel cell integration is a highly complex engineering challenge, Toyota required a partner with proven experience in vehicle conversions, innovative technologies, and the ability to bring new solutions to market efficiently.

Finding the right partner

During the search for a suitable development partner, VDL Special Vehicles and VDL ETS quickly stood out. The companies had already demonstrated its expertise through the conversion of conventional diesel-powered DAF trucks into fully electric vehicles and possessed an extensive network within the automotive industry.

In addition, the close geographical proximity facilitated efficient communication and enabled both organizations to collaborate closely throughout the project.

After a series of technical discussions and evaluations, Toyota selected VDL Special Vehicles and VDL ETS as its preferred partner.

''VDL Special Vehicles and VDL ETS are highly valued partners with extensive experience in developing innovative solutions. Their flexibility, technical expertise, and collaborative approach make them an excellent partner for fuel cell vehicle development.”

Mr. Paquet, Toyota Motor Europe

A flexible and solution oriented approach

Throughout the collaboration, VDL Special Vehicles and VDL ETS consistently demonstrated a strong ability to translate technical challenges into practical solutions. The team actively contributed ideas, explored alternatives, and worked closely with Toyota to ensure project objectives could be achieved.

What impressed Toyota most was the level of flexibility throughout the entire organization. From engineering specialists to management, VDL showed a willingness to adapt, collaborate, and support the project wherever needed.

This proactive and solution-oriented mindset enabled both parties to navigate technical complexities while maintaining momentum towards the development of advanced vehicle solutions based on fuel cell technology

Driving Future Hydrogen Mobility

The successful collaboration reinforced Toyota's confidence in VDL Special Vehicles' capabilities as an engineering and integration partner for advanced mobility technologies.

As a result, Toyota Motor Europe has recommended VDL Special Vehicles to multiple organizations seeking support with the integration of hydrogen fuel cell technology into trucks and other vehicle platforms.

Together, Toyota and VDL Special Vehicles are developing innovative hydrogen-powered transport solutions for heavy-duty applications. By combining fuel cell technology, engineering expertise and vehicle integration capabilities, the partnership supports customers in exploring new approaches to reducing transport-related emissions.