Nikola Powers Up 1st HYLA Hydrogen Refueling Station in So Cal

Nikola Sparks Green Energy Surge with Southern California’s First HYLA Hydrogen Station

In a significant stride towards clean energy and sustainability, Nikola Corporation, a pioneer in the hydrogen truck industry, has announced the opening of its first HYLA hydrogen refueling station in Southern California. This revolutionary development marks an essential milestone in the company’s journey to promote hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel source. The new station is set to cater to the growing demand for hydrogen fuel, further propelling the state’s transition to a green economy.

Unveiling the HYLA Hydrogen Refueling Station

The state-of-the-art HYLA refueling station, located at 2445 East Guasti Road in Ontario, California, showcases Nikola’s latest commitment to hydrogen refueling solutions for Class 8 trucks. The station is equipped with an advanced modular fueler, setting a new standard in the industry.

Designed to accommodate a high volume of vehicles, the Ontario station will be capable of refueling up to 40 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric Class 8 trucks daily. As part of Nikola’s strategic plan, this station is one of up to 60 hydrogen refueling solutions intended to be established in the coming years, with nine planned to be operational by the close of Q2 2024. Nikola ensures seamless and efficient fueling experiences for its customers by providing 24/7 support with on-site HYLA Ambassadors and Operation Technicians.

Statements from Nikola Corporation

Ole Hoefelmann, President of Energy at Nikola Corporation, expressed his excitement about the opening of the HYLA station. “We are thrilled to open the first HYLA hydrogen refueling station in Southern California, marking a significant milestone for Nikola and offering convenient access for our customers,” said Hoefelmann.

He further emphasized the corporation’s commitment to a sustainable future, saying, “Easing the transition to a zero-emission trucking future and prioritizing access to a hydrogen solution network is our top objective and we’re just getting started. Once the nine planned solutions are in place by mid-2024, Nikola will have established one of the world’s largest heavy-duty hydrogen refueling networks, providing customers accessibility at their current locations and along their planned routes.”

Nikola Corporation’s recent activities showcase a strong commitment to advancing zero-emission transportation and hydrogen fuel technology.

Towards the end of 2023, Nikola entered into a strategic ten-year partnership with FirstElement Fuel (FEF). This alliance grants Nikola’s customers access to FEF’s advanced heavy-duty truck refueling station near the port, supporting Nikola’s goal of deploying zero-emission vehicles at California’s Maritime Ports and establishing up to 60 hydrogen fueling stations in the coming years. The collaboration also introduces the world’s first fast-fill lane for efficient hydrogen refueling in heavy-duty trucks at FEF’s station. As an official Nikola Fueling Solutions Partner, FEF plays a crucial role in promoting Nikola’s vision for mainstream hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.

Coyote Container’s landmark journey, covering 400 miles with a Nikola Tre Fuel Cell hydrogen truck, illustrates the potential of hydrogen-powered transportation. This achievement, which involved traversing challenging terrains and successfully delivering a heavy container, underscores Nikola’s commitment to advancing a future with zero emissions.

In early 2024, Nikola and Nel ASA mutually agreed to dissolve their original supply agreement from 2018, marking a significant shift in their longstanding partnership. The updated agreement involves providing 110 alkaline stacks and related Balance of Stack (BOS) equipment, signifying a change in Nikola’s hydrogen ambitions. These recent developments highlight Nikola’s dynamic approach to partnerships and innovations in the green energy sector.

Impact and Significance

The inauguration of the HYLA hydrogen refueling station in Ontario, California, marks a significant achievement for Nikola Corporation and the wider hydrogen fuel industry. With the capability to fuel up to 40 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric Class 8 trucks each day, the station serves as a tangible symbol of the strides being made towards zero-emission transportation.

For the local community and the state of California, this development brings multiple potential advantages. It represents a step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty trucks, a major contributor to air pollution in the region. Additionally, it stimulates the local economy by driving innovation and potentially generating new employment opportunities in the green energy sector.

On a broader scale, the launch of the HYLA station has far-reaching implications for the hydrogen fuel industry and the global fight against climate change. It validates the feasibility of hydrogen as a fuel source for heavy-duty transport, potentially encouraging further investments and advancements in this domain. Moreover, it underscores the growing recognition of hydrogen as a critical element in achieving worldwide carbon neutrality objectives.

Looking to the future, Nikola’s plans to establish up to 60 hydrogen fueling stations demonstrate the company’s dedication to broadening the availability of hydrogen fuel solutions. As the network of stations expands, we can anticipate an acceleration in the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles, which will play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of climate change.