Chengdu-Chongqing Hydrogen Corridor Expands with Over 1,300 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles and Accelerates Hydrogen Energy Commercialization

As of now, over 1,300 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have been deployed in the Chengdu-Chongqing Hydrogen Corridor, highlighting the rapid advancement of hydrogen energy commercialization in these regions. On April 23, 2025, the Hydrogen Industry Conference themed “Hydrogen-Powered China: Energizing the Future” took place in Chengdu, featuring a discussion on the integration of hydrogen energy into communities through the blending of natural gas with hydrogen.

According to Yiyong, the Deputy Director of the Research Institute at Sichuan Jinxing Clean Energy Equipment Group Co., Ltd., the company has successfully implemented a demonstration project in Chengdu that utilizes hydrogen-blended natural gas for community energy supply. This initiative is part of the city’s hydrogen development plan which aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The China Hydrogen Technology Development Research Report 2024, published in March, indicates that critical technologies in China’s hydrogen industry are transitioning from engineering to commercialization. Breakthroughs have been achieved across various segments of the industry, with key processes and materials nearing international standards. During the conference, Dai Lan, the Chief Engineer of Chengdu’s Economic and Information Commission, emphasized the city’s focus on advancing hydrogen technology and establishing a robust industrial ecosystem.

Chengdu is targeting cutting-edge technologies such as proton exchange membrane electrolysis and liquid organic hydrogen storage. They are working on developing a comprehensive standard system and certification platforms to support the standardized growth of the hydrogen sector, while also exploring diverse applications and innovative business models.

Furthermore, the forthcoming Jinniu District Hydrogen Innovation and Technology Park will serve as a national hub for hydrogen energy, facilitating research, manufacturing, and sales for hydrogen energy applications. The park aims to attract core enterprises involved in hydrogen production, storage, and refueling.

On April 18, a signing ceremony was held for the Shudao Toyota Hydrogen Fuel Cell Smart Manufacturing Base in Chengdu, with an estimated investment of 1 billion yuan. This facility will produce a range of hydrogen fuel cell products to cater to various commercial vehicle needs, including heavy trucks and buses.

Chengdu currently hosts over 100 hydrogen energy companies that cover the entire supply chain from production to utilization. Notable advancements include Oriental Hydrogen, which has established a comprehensive industrial layout, and Yalian Hydrogen, which has developed the world’s first biomass ethanol reforming hydrogen production unit.

Since the opening of the Chengdu-Chongqing Hydrogen Corridor in November 2021, hundreds of hydrogen-powered light and heavy trucks have been operational daily across Chengdu, Chongqing, and surrounding areas. Chongqing’s Jiulongpo District has become a key player in the hydrogen vehicle manufacturing and logistics sector, with 27 hydrogen refueling stations already established, marking the largest demonstration scale in Western China.

The development of the Chengdu-Chongqing Hydrogen Corridor and the application of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are enhancing the transportation sector’s green and low-carbon transition. This corridor also encourages resource integration and collaborative efforts among enterprises, such as the logistics company Zhongwu Shengtong, which operates over 100 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles powered by Yihuatong engines.

Innovations in hydrogen applications are continually emerging. For instance, on April 14, ten hydrogen-fueled buses commenced operations from Chongqing’s water port, marking the official opening of the West Land-Sea New Corridor’s hydrogen route. Additionally, on April 8, a 50-kilogram hydrogen-powered drone achieved a remarkable flight duration of 30 hours, setting a new domestic record.

As the commercialization of hydrogen energy accelerates, more demonstration projects will emerge, making hydrogen-blended natural gas a common resource in households.