Hydrogen-powered Toyota Hilux gets special role at Schiphol Airport

September 11, 2025

Hydrogen as a fuel

Schiphol wants to switch completely to emission-free ground operations by 2030. That means no more diesel fumes on the apron and that everything that supplies, tows or moves planes must operate without emissions. There are already many battery-electric vehicles running around, but so now they are also looking at hydrogen.

Practical test on the asphalt

The Hilux is obviously not used to pull aircraft to the runway – a special durable tow vehicle was developed for that purpose – but it rotates with the Bird Control department. That team is responsible for checking runways and chasing birds away.

Refueling in minutes

The test will look at range and ease of use. A private hydrogen refueling station has been temporarily installed on site, so the Hilux can be refueled in minutes and move on.

Technology from the Mirai

Under the skin, you won’t find a traditional diesel, but parts familiar from the Toyota Mirai. The Hilux has three tanks in the ladder chassis that together store 7.8 kilograms of hydrogen, good for about 600 kilometers of range. The fuel cell stack has 330 cells and feeds an electric motor on the rear axle. This delivers 134 kW (182 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. While driving, no smoke comes out of the exhaust – just some water.