Toyota and Shudao form joint venture to transfer hydrogen infrastructure in China

In a strategic move with potential global repercussions, Toyota Motor Corporation and Shudao Group have announced the creation of Shudao Toyota Hydrogen Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a joint venture that represents a decisive step toward consolidating the hydrogen economy in southwest China. Headquartered in Qingbaijiang District, Chengdu, the new company will focus on the production, marketing and after-sales services of hydrogen fuel cell systems, primarily for commercial vehicles such as heavy-duty trucks, buses, sanitation vehicles and specialized equipment.

The venture is being launched with an initial investment of 1 billion yuan (approximately US$145 million) and will employ the proven TPS (Toyota Production System) production system to ensure efficiency, quality and scalability. Toyota holds a 50% stake, with the remainder divided between Shudao Equipment (45%) and Shudao Group (5%). The joint venture fits into a strategic context: Qingbaijiang is located at the heart of the Chengdu-Chongqing hydrogen corridor, and is home to significant logistics and industrial infrastructure, ideal for the demonstration and expansion of hydrogen-powered solutions.

Cutting-edge technology meets regional ambition in sustainable hydrogen capital

Toyota, a global leader in fuel cell technology, brings nearly three decades of continuous development and mass production experience to the partnership, including the launch of its first hydrogen-powered commercial vehicle in 2014. Shudao Equipment, with deep knowledge of the local ecosystem and strong government support, has led regionally significant projects such as hydrogen locomotives and large-scale fueling infrastructure.

The new 10,000-square-meter industrial facility, which will start with around 50 employees, will be supported by a growing regional ecosystem: Qingbaijiang is already home to fleets of hydrogen-powered forklifts and refrigerated trucks, is also completing new fueling stations and implementing an innovative hydrogen production project from synthetic ammonia, which will provide up to 36,000 Nm³/h, the largest source of hydrogen in the city.

The joint venture will begin operations serving the automaker Sinotruk Chengshang, which has already produced 353 hydrogen vehicles and ordered 480 units. The project not only reinforces China's role as a leader in clean industrial innovation, but also positions Chengdu as an emerging hub in the global energy transition, combining global expertise with regional production capacity. The Sino-Japanese commitment is clear: to become a replicable model of industrial development based on hydrogen technology, carbon neutrality and smart regional integration.