Tom’s Truck Center, a leader in commercial truck sales and a key player in the Nikola dealer network, has unveiled the first hydrogen refueling station at a U.S. truck dealership. Located at Tom’s Truck Center’s Santa Fe Springs site in Los Angeles County, this station features the Nikola HYLA modular refueling system designed for heavy-duty trucks. Positioned along the busy Highway 5, the station’s high-pressure (700-bar) equipment supports the refueling of up to 30 trucks daily and operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., with dedicated technicians ensuring smooth service.
Tom’s Truck Center President and CEO KC Heidler emphasized California’s commitment to hydrogen energy: “We’re excited to contribute to the hydrogen-powered future by offering this crucial infrastructure. Partnering with HYLA to provide accessible hydrogen refueling helps reduce carbon emissions and improves air quality, setting new benchmarks for clean transportation.”
The launch event was attended by notable figures including State Senators Josh Newman and Bob Archuleta, Santa Fe Springs City Manager Rene Bobadilla, GO-Biz Deputy Director Gia Brazil Vacin, CARB Representative Isaac Lino, and Nikola Corporation President Stephen Girsky.
Senator Newman highlighted the significance of hydrogen technology, stating, “The opening of the HYLA station marks a crucial step toward zero-emission heavy goods movement in California, advancing our goals to decarbonize transportation and promote a sustainable environment.”
Current HYLA refueling sites in California include Long Beach and Ontario, with 14 more planned by the end of 2024. Tom’s Truck Center also offers sales, rentals, leasing, and service for EV and hydrogen trucks, with experts available to assist customers with incentives, charging options, and product education. The long-term plan includes a permanent hydrogen refueling station at Tom’s, expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
[Link to Event Video]
Tom’s Truck Center
Founded in 1949, Tom’s Truck Center offers sales, rentals, leasing, parts, and service for medium to heavy-duty trucks and vans from brands like Ford, Fuso, GreenPower, Hino, Isuzu, Nikola, and REE. The company helps customers navigate government incentives and infrastructure options. Tom’s Truck Center operates from two locations: 909 N. Grand Ave, Santa Ana, CA, and 13443 E. Freeway Drive, Santa Fe Springs, CA.