Deploying Heavy-Duty Electric Trucks in Vietnam and Assessing the Economic Feasibility of Hydrogen-Powered Heavy Trucks
As part of the thematic workshop titled “Renewable Hydrogen and Circular Energy Solutions for Vietnam and ASEAN’s Green Mobility Future,” held on February 5 in Ho Chi Minh City, the Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club (VAHC), in collaboration with Wisdom Motor Group and UNP, convened industry stakeholders to discuss technological pathways and implementation strategies for green transportation in Vietnam and the region.
During the event, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Hien, representative of Delta International, delivered a presentation entitled “Implementing Heavy-Duty BEV Trucks in Vietnam and An Assessment of the Economic Feasibility of Hydrogen-Powered Heavy Trucks.” Her presentation highlighted practical experience in deploying battery electric heavy-duty trucks in Vietnam, while also analyzing the opportunities and challenges of hydrogen-powered heavy trucks.
Green Transition as an Inevitable Trend in Logistics
Ms. Hien noted that Delta International operates extensively in the road freight sector, managing a large fleet of heavy-duty trucks. Recognizing logistics as a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, the company began implementing sustainability initiatives as early as 2019, including eco-driving training, enhanced safety programs to reduce fuel consumption, and participation in regional green development and trade-related certification schemes.
However, operational optimization alone is insufficient for deep decarbonization. According to Ms. Hien, meaningful emission reductions require the adoption of new technologies such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen fuel cell trucks.
Investment Costs and Infrastructure as Key Barriers
Delta International’s analysis indicates that upfront investment remains the primary obstacle. A conventional diesel truck costs approximately USD 45,000, while a heavy-duty electric truck costs around USD 150,000. Hydrogen-powered trucks can reach USD 200,000 or more. This substantial cost gap presents major financial challenges for transport operators.
Technological transition also requires consideration of existing assets. Rather than simply purchasing new vehicles, companies must explore options to convert or upgrade current diesel fleets to optimize capital efficiency.
Market dynamics pose another challenge. Many customers express interest in green logistics solutions but are reluctant to pay premium rates compared to conventional diesel services, creating tension between environmental ambition and economic viability.
Infrastructure remains a decisive factor. Electric trucks require high-capacity charging stations and a stable power grid. Hydrogen trucks face even greater barriers, as Vietnam currently lacks hydrogen refueling stations and the associated technical service ecosystem.
In addition, regulatory frameworks and incentive policies for electric and hydrogen trucks are still evolving. The absence of pilot projects and case studies limits the availability of real-world operational data to validate economic feasibility.
Practical Experience and Future Outlook
Ms. Hien shared that Delta International spent nearly four years researching and preparing before successfully deploying heavy-duty electric trucks in Vietnam. The company prioritized container trucks, which represent one of the highest-emitting segments in road freight, thereby maximizing environmental impact and scalability.
Operationally, electric trucks are currently more suitable for short-haul routes, with charging times of approximately one to two hours using high-capacity chargers. Hydrogen trucks, by contrast, are better suited for long-haul transport, offering refueling times of around 15 minutes—comparable to diesel—along with the potential for higher energy efficiency.
From a strategic perspective, Ms. Hien emphasized that electric and hydrogen trucks should not be viewed as competing technologies but as complementary solutions. Electric trucks are well-suited for current short-distance applications, while hydrogen holds strong potential for long-distance freight, particularly in the context of achieving net-zero emission targets by 2050–2060.
In conclusion, Delta International called for stronger collaboration among policymakers, technology providers, and industry stakeholders to initiate pilot projects, develop infrastructure ecosystems, and generate real operational data to accelerate Vietnam’s green transport transition.
