Daimler Truck’s Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck travels over 1,000 kilometers on a single fill of liquid hydrogen, reinforcing the operational viability of hydrogen fuel-cell technology in long-haul transportation.
A prototype of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck, operated by Daimler Truck, has recently completed a distance of 1,047 kilometers between Woerth am Rhein and Berlin, on a single fill of liquid hydrogen. This achievement is part of Daimler Truck’s commitment to exploring hydrogen fuel-cell technology as a viable solution for reducing carbon emissions in the demanding realm of long-haul road transportation.
The journey, referred to as the #HydrogenRecordRun, commenced on September 25, 2023, at Mercedes-Benz Truck’s Customer Center in Woerth am Rhein and concluded on the morning of September 26, 2023, in Berlin. The truck completed this journey while fully loaded, with a gross combined vehicle weight of 40 tonnes, under real-world conditions, and without emitting any carbon dioxide (CO2) throughout the entire journey. This accomplishment was independently verified by TÜV Rheinland through a comprehensive inspection document.
The successful run of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck was a collaborative effort, with Rhineland-Palatinate’s Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, Petra Dick-Walther, participating in the launch ceremony. She expressed her pride in this innovative achievement, emphasizing that it showcases the innovative spirit of Rhineland-Palatinate and signifies a milestone in the transformation and decarbonization of the transport sector. This achievement is expected to have a significant impact on the transport industry, thanks to advancements in new technologies.
Before embarking on the #HydrogenRecordRun, the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck was fueled with liquid hydrogen at Daimler Truck’s filling station in Woerth. The hydrogen used in this run was of renewable origin, produced from biomethane with guarantees of origin. The truck’s specially designed tanks kept the cryogenic liquid hydrogen at a temperature of minus 253 degrees Celsius, ensuring its stability over the course of the journey.
Daimler Truck’s preference for liquid hydrogen stems from its higher energy density compared to gaseous hydrogen, allowing for increased range and performance comparable to that of conventional diesel trucks.
Daimler Truck is committed to a dual-track strategy, focusing on both hydrogen and battery-powered vehicles. Its objective is to offer CO2-neutral vehicles in its core markets by 2039. While battery-electric trucks are suitable for distribution and regular long-distance haulage on planned routes with charging options, hydrogen-based drives are seen as more practical for highly flexible and demanding deployments in heavy-duty transport and long-distance haulage.
Daimler Truck’s investment in hydrogen technology dates back to September 2020 when the company announced its commitment to this approach. Since then, it has made substantial progress, including the establishment of cellcentric, a joint venture with Volvo Group, to operate one of Europe’s largest production facilities for fuel cells. Prototypes of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck have undergone rigorous testing, with the recent #HydrogenRecordRun being a significant milestone on the path to sustainable transportation.
