DHL Supply Chain and Diageo North America are taking their commitment to sustainability to a new level with the introduction of hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks in Illinois, marking the first deployment of Class 8 vehicles of this kind in the state. Working alongside Nikola Corporation, these companies will utilize hydrogen-powered vehicles to replace traditional diesel trucks, advancing both environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. The trucks, fueled on-site at Diageo’s Plainfield campus using Nikola's HYLA modular refueler, represent a milestone in decarbonizing transport logistics and highlight Diageo's efforts toward a net-zero future.

This innovation is part of a broader sustainable logistics strategy between DHL and Diageo, with their partnership spanning over two decades. As one of Diageo’s primary logistics providers, DHL has been instrumental in reducing carbon emissions through a series of measures, such as route optimization, multimodal transportation, and battery electric vehicle integration. This recent move toward hydrogen fuel cell technology exemplifies their commitment to lowering greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to cleaner air. These new trucks are expected to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% annually, providing a significant environmental benefit for the region.

Diageo’s Plainfield operations play a central role in the company’s North American supply chain, serving as a key manufacturing and bottling hub for brands like Captain Morgan and Smirnoff. The adoption of hydrogen fuel cell trucks not only supports the company's sustainability goals for its Plainfield facilities but also aligns with Diageo's overarching "Spirit of Progress" action plan to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in direct operations by 2030 and throughout its value chain by 2050. By implementing clean energy technologies at this strategic hub, Diageo is reinforcing its dedication to sustainable production and operational practices in Illinois and beyond.

Local leaders, including Plainfield Mayor John F. Argoudelis and Illinois State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, have applauded the project, emphasizing its role in meeting Illinois's clean energy objectives. Nikola Corporation’s CEO Steve Girsky expressed pride in partnering with visionary companies like DHL and Diageo, which are leading the charge toward a zero-emissions future. The deployment of these hydrogen-powered trucks is the result of 18 months of collaboration, involving rigorous testing, stakeholder engagement, and educational outreach, ensuring a smooth, safe, and impactful shift toward sustainable logistics for both Diageo and DHL.



