It may not be the U.S.S. Enterprise, but it has a space-age look. The Nikola One just might be what brings trucking fully into the 21st century. State-of-the-art technology, combined with a unique lease plan that includes hydrogen fuel for the truck, promises to substantially reduce truck operating costs when compared to current diesel trucks. This is made possible with a hybrid powertrain driven by hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, and electric motors. Its current range is 1,200 mile and weighs 17,000lbs, about 2,000lbs lighter than traditional diesel engine trucks. At a peak of 1,000hp and 2,000ft-lbs of torque, the Nikola One can run 80,000lbs up a 6%grade at 65mph. Power output is modulated based on actual need, conserving energy and reducing tire wear. Regenerative braking will perform 85% of the stopping work, with disk air brakes to handle quick stops. A fully independent suspension designed by Meritor, based on their ProTec line of suspensions, provides enhanced handling and stability. Currently, the Nikola One is scheduled to be in production by 2020.
Skeptics aren’t so sure that the Nikola One will ever make it into production, since other attempts at hydrogen-powered vehicles have failed. This time may be different, however with the backing of U.S. Xpress, Ryder Systems, Meritor, deep-pocketed investors, and over $4 billion in order reservations for the truck. If it succeeds, the Nikola One will transform trucking by offering a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional diesel-engine based powertrains.