Nikola Motor showcased five zero-emission products at its Nikola World 2019 event Arizona for the first time in its quest to become one of the most disruptive forces in the world of trucking and Powersports.
Among the firsts who have championed trucking’s transition to an electric drivetrain, Nikola Motor Company on Tuesday gave the world its most significant update on the hydrogen-electric tractor that had been tucked away since its first unveiling in December 2016.
The first product unveiled was the autonomous-capable Nikola Reckless, the military all-terrain vehicle that was driven on stage via remote control.
We want to amend everything about the transportation industry, with Nikola’s vision; the world will be cleaner, safer and healthier. – Company CEO Trevor Milton
Nikola’s Executive Vice President of Hydrogen Jesse Schneider next laid out Nikola’s hydrogen fuel cell vision, which consists of the world’s first purpose-built fuel cell Class 8 truck, enabling more hydrogen storage, and optimized placement of the powertrain, and a robust 70 MPa hydrogen fueling network.
On the trucking side, Nikola offered the Nikola One, the Two, and the Tre. Milton noted how other companies are working on hydrogen trucks, but he took pride in being the first to go down the path. As hydrogen is one of the planet’s amplest found and renewable fuels, Milton sought this as the right time for a hydrogen truck. Thus the primary key is the fuel cells, which provide the necessary power and range.
The tractors feature a 250 kWh capacity with an 800-volt AC motor, single-speed direct drive transmission, and a low-noise gear. Available in either 6×2 or 6×4 tractor configuration, the tractor features liquid-cooled e-axles.
The company will offer the Two and Tre in both hydrogen-electric and battery-electric models. Milton expects about 80 percent of the sales to be the hydrogen-electric models.
