Hong Kong rolls out first hydrogen-powered street washing vehicles

Each truck is equipped with six hydrogen cylinders and can be refueled in approximately 15 minutes.

Hong Kong has rolled out its first hydrogen-powered street washing vehicles as part of its low-carbon transport strategy. 

The three new trucks, operated by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, combine hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, and electric motors in a dual-energy system designed for heavy-duty use.

The vehicles officially entered service on 12 June, following operational approval and the opening of the city’s first public hydrogen refueling station in Au Tau, Yuen Long.

Each truck is equipped with six hydrogen cylinders and can be refueled in approximately 15 minutes. A battery charging port is located beside the hydrogen inlet, allowing flexible energy management between electric charging and hydrogen refuelling.

Officials noted that the hydrogen fuel cell system emits only water during operation and uses fewer, smaller batteries compared to fully electric vehicles—cutting down on long-term battery waste.