Mercedes-Benz recently conducted winter tests for their next generation of fuel cell trucks on Simplon Pass in Switzerland's Valais Canton. The drivers of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Trucks navigated icy conditions and steep gradients, providing valuable data on the vehicles' performance. The tests focused on evaluating essential components such as the fuel cell, battery, e-axle, and thermal management systems, emphasizing efficiency and performance under extreme conditions. One key aspect was the utilization of Predictive Powertrain Controls system for efficient battery and fuel cell usage. The successful testing affirmed the reliability and potential of the GenH2 Trucks, even under demanding conditions. These trucks, with a gross vehicle weight of up to 40 tonnes, covered 6,500 kilometers over 14 days, including a challenging climb of 83,000 meters on mountain roads. Refueling was done using a mobile hydrogen station. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz secured funding of over AUD$388 million from the German Federal Ministry and federal states for the production and deployment of 100 fuel cell trucks. The project, part of the EU's IPCEI Hydrogen program, will cover both vehicle development and production activities, including feasibility studies on the hydrogen value chain and investment in production facilities. The next-gen fuel cell trucks are expected to be assembled at Mercedes-Benz's plant in Wörth and will be operational at various customer sites starting from late 2026.