Industry's first hydrogen-powered truck drives for MEWA: Future on four wheels

As the first German company, MEWA is among 20 companies selected across Europe to operate one of the world's first hydrogen-powered trucks daily. Automaker Hyundai recently handed over the keys to the first hydrogen truck "Xcient Fuel Cell." From the end of April 2021, this truck will drive on Swiss roads to deliver emissions-free to MEWA's customers.

Emission-free mobility in closed loop

Hydrogen is currently regarded worldwide as just about the most important energy source of the future. In Switzerland, an innovative hydrogen program is already a reality. "Using hydrogen to power trucks is a world first for us, because MEWA is so far the only German company participating in this project," says Kay Simon, who is in charge of mobility concepts and distribution strategy at the MEWA power plant in Wiesbaden. "We are therefore very proud to be among the hydrogen pioneers," he adds.

Out of the exhaust comes water vapor instead of CO2

The use of the green, CO2-neutral hydrogen makes this project unique. CO2-neutral electricity from hydropower plants is used for its production, and the truck's emissions therefore consist solely of pure water vapor. This sustainable cycle fits perfectly with MEWA's new distribution strategies. "Currently, the daily deliveries to our customers inevitably involve CO2 emissions," Kay Simon explains. "We would like to permanently reduce these CO2 emissions from our vehicle fleet. In doing so, MEWA is not counting on transitional technologies that emit less CO2 but is radically going for CO2-free technologies of the future, such as hydrogen."  

The reusability principle goes hand in hand with sustainable distribution in Switzerland

MEWA, as a European provider of textile services, has been committed for 113 years to recycling and thus to a strategy of sustainable trade and respectful treatment of nature. A hydrogen-powered truck that collects and delivers reusable cleaning cloths and work clothes therefore fits perfectly into its fleet. George Lazar, Managing Director of MEWA in Switzerland, is also pleased with the pilot project: "We have come a big step closer to completely CO2-neutral delivery to our Swiss customers in the future. Our services will become even more sustainable and environmentally friendly thanks to this pilot project."

Hydrogen trucks become climate neutral

Hyundai is the first automaker to offer a serial truck powered by hydrogen. The storage capacity of the seven hydrogen tanks combined provides a range of more than 400 km. The CO2 and emission-free technology of hydrogen-powered vehicles brings MEWA a significant step closer to the goal of an environmentally friendly fleet. "Per truck, about 65 tons of CO2 per year do not enter the atmosphere. This truck is at the center of an extraordinary cycle and is therefore an important key to emission-free transportation," said Mark Freymüller, CEO of Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility. So starting in May, keep your eyes open so you don't miss MEWA's revolutionary truck on the streets.

MEWA textile management

MEWA has offered a total solution for industrial clothing since 1908 and is thus considered a pioneer in textile sharing. Today, MEWA delivers professional and protective clothing, cleaning cloths, oil sumps and foot mats - including maintenance, repair, storage and logistics - from 45 branches to companies all over Europe. In addition, work safety articles can be ordered. 5,700 employees serve more than 190,000 customers from industry, trade, crafts and gastronomy. In 2019, MEWA achieved sales of 734 million euros and can thus call itself the market leader in the textile management sector. For its commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility, as well as for its branding and innovative strength, the company received several awards.