A Sino-European Pact Fuels the Hydrogen Freight Race

Hy24 and Refire partner to advance hydrogen freight across Europe amid growing demand for low-emission transport

4 Nov 2025

Europe’s race to clean up freight transport has taken a decisive turn. In July 2025, hydrogen investment firm Hy24 signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chinese fuel cell leader Refire to explore deploying hydrogen-powered trucks across the continent, a move that could redefine heavy-duty mobility.

Freight transport is responsible for almost a quarter of Europe’s road emissions, and decarbonizing it has proven stubbornly difficult. While electric trucks have made inroads, hydrogen fuel cells promise faster refueling and longer range, making them better suited to long-haul routes. Hy24’s capital and networks, combined with Refire’s field-tested technology, could help Europe move from pilot projects to large-scale hydrogen adoption.

Refire brings hard-earned experience to the table. Its fuel cell systems already power more than seven thousand heavy vehicles worldwide, including fleets in China that have logged over 300 million kilometers. Hy24, meanwhile, offers the financial heft and regional insight to adapt this technology to Europe’s evolving infrastructure and policy frameworks. Analysts say the alliance marries Asia’s technological maturity with Europe’s regulatory and climate ambitions.

The deal also signals a new wave of international collaboration in the hydrogen sector. European companies are increasingly turning to global partners to access proven technologies, secure supply chains, and lower costs as they scale up production.

Challenges persist, from a patchy refueling network to uneven national policies, but optimism is rising. Governments are funding hydrogen corridors and logistics hubs, setting the stage for broader adoption later this decade.

More than a business pact, the Hy24-Refire agreement is a strategic push toward cleaner, cross-border freight. With investment, innovation, and policy momentum aligning, hydrogen may soon fuel Europe’s next transport revolution.