Daimler Truck Tests Mercedes-Benz Liquid Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks in the Swiss Alps
Key Ideas
  • Daimler Truck successfully tested next-generation Mercedes-Benz liquid hydrogen fuel cell trucks in the cold and snow of the Swiss Alps, covering 6,500km and climbing a combined 83,000 meters.
  • The GenH2 trucks underwent rigorous testing at the Simplon Pass in the canton of Valais, showcasing their potential and reliability under demanding conditions.
  • The trials are part of a larger €225m project funded by the German federal and state governments to develop, manufacture, and deploy 100 fuel cell trucks starting from 2026.
  • While the tests highlighted the promising performance of the fuel cell trucks, the sector faces challenges such as uncertainties in business models for fleet operators and the need for significant cost reductions to achieve competitiveness with diesel alternatives by 2030.
Daimler Truck recently completed testing of its next-generation Mercedes-Benz liquid hydrogen fuel cell trucks in the challenging terrain of the Swiss Alps. The two GenH2 trucks were put through their paces at the Simplon Pass in the canton of Valais to validate various components including fuel cells, batteries, e-axles, hydrogen tanks, and thermal management systems. Dr. Rainer Müller-Finkeldei, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Product Engineering, highlighted the favorable conditions for testing the trucks' performance while climbing steep gradients ranging up to 12%. The successful 14-day testing period involved the trucks covering 6,500km and climbing a total of 83,000 meters, demonstrating their reliability in harsh weather conditions. This testing initiative is part of a significant €225m project funded by the German government to develop and deploy 100 fuel cell trucks starting in 2026. Despite the positive outcomes of the tests, the hydrogen-powered commercial mobility sector faces challenges, with some casualties reported in Q1 2025. Fleet operators are uncertain about integrating zero-emission trucks into their operations, while infrastructure players seek assurances regarding the return on investments in fuelling and charging stations. Achieving cost parity with diesel alternatives by 2030 remains a key hurdle, with substantial reductions required in hydrogen pump prices and upfront vehicle costs. The article emphasizes the need for continued innovation and cost-efficiency improvements in the hydrogen truck sector to drive widespread adoption and commercial viability.
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