HTEC recently hosted a Hydrogen Truck and Safety Showcase to engage two key groups essential to the success of a hydrogen transportation ecosystem: fleet operators and first responders. Supported by Foresight through the BC Net Zero Innovation Network, the event aimed to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks—particularly Class 8 heavy-duty vehicles now rolling out in British Columbia—by offering education, hands-on engagement, and opportunities for testing. Fleet operators that are early adopters will play a critical role in driving the demand for clean fuel, while first responders need to be prepared as the technology becomes more widely deployed.
The showcase featured three of HTEC’s Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell trucks—two Hyundai XCIENT Fuel Cells and one Nikola Tre—as well as a Class 7 Peterbilt truck retrofitted with Unilia fuel cell stacks.
At HTEC, our aim is to make hydrogen part of the solution when it comes to decarbonizing the transportation sector. As transportation accounts for 27% of Canada’s GHG emissions[i], advancing low-carbon alternatives like hydrogen is a needed step toward meeting Canada’s climate goals. By working across the clean hydrogen value chain, including hydrogen production, fueling infrastructure, and vehicle deployment, we are actively building BC’s first hydrogen transportation hub. But to fully realize this vision, cross-sector collaboration is essential, and this was the main objective of this event.
Fleet operators are key enablers of hydrogen adoption. They face growing pressure to reduce emissions and meet regulatory requirements while maintaining profitability. HTEC’s Vehicle Leasing Corporation (VLC) offers a turnkey solution: hydrogen fuel cell trucks, fueling access, driver training and a hydrogen-safe maintenance facility, streamlining the path to adoption.
“We were thrilled to see both current and prospective customers of HTEC’s Vehicle Leasing Corporation attend the event and see the technology in person. It was a valuable opportunity to engage with fleet operators who are not only committed to reducing carbon emissions but are set to lead the journey of zero-emission transportation.” says Rob Stevenson, Leasing Director, HTEC VLC.
At the same time, it is important to connect with first responders, as any fuel needs to be handled properly. So while hydrogen is a safe, efficient, and reliable fuel, engaging first responders is a priority, ensuring they are prepared, informed, and confident in their response as hydrogen vehicles begin operating on public roads. The event allowed us to strengthen relationships with emergency personnel where our facilities, stations and trucks are operational and lay the groundwork for ongoing information-sharing to keep our communities safe.
“From my perspective this event was a huge success. Raising awareness, providing information and tools, learning how we can better integrate with first responders to provide scene support or training, is something that is very important to me and to HTEC. We want first responders to be educated on hydrogen, and we want them to know how to respond to a hydrogen incident, so that when one occurs either on the road, at a station, or at a production facility, they are as informed as possible. I was extremely happy and impressed with the level of engagement from the three different municipal fire departments that attended, and I hope this can be a bridge for further cooperation. I am looking forward to the next steps and how we can grow this relationship between HTEC and first responders!” says Ashley Perry, HTEC’s Process Safety Team Lead.
A Platform for Progress
The showcase was a successful event, connecting with many interested parties and forging relationships that will help the hydrogen sector move closer to its goals.
If you weren’t able to make the event and want to learn more:
- Fleet Operators: View our VLC information booklet: https://www.htec.ca/truck-leasing/form/
- First Responders: View our safety hub: https://www.htec.ca/safety-hub/
- General Inquiries: Email us at info@htec.ca
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[i] Government of Canada, 2024, 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan – Sector-by-sector overview,