Daimler Tests Fuel Cell Truck Prototypes in the Swiss Alps

The development team at Daimler Truck has constructed the first prototypes of Mercedes-Benz's next-generation fuel cell trucks and recently subjected them to a series of demanding tests in the Swiss Alps.

Mercedes-Benz views hydrogen as a complementary technology to battery electrification. While battery electric trucks are ideal for short and medium-distance transport, hydrogen trucks are more suitable for long-distance transport.

Over 14 days, two hydrogen trucks, which are CO2 emission-free during operation, covered a total of 6,500 kilometers, ascending and descending a cumulative elevation of 83,000 meters. Particularly challenging were the uphill and downhill sections of approximately 20 km with gradients of 10 to 12%, which accounted for a total of 1,600 kilometers.

The tests allowed for a thorough analysis of the interaction of all essential components of the propulsion system, including the fuel cell, high-voltage battery, electric axle, tank system, and thermal management. Special attention was paid to the use of the Predictive Powertrain Control (PCM) system, the topography-dependent cruise control, with the aim of optimizing battery use in combination with the fuel cell.

"For the continuous development of our Mercedes-Benz GenH2 truck, we rely on the experience of the first generation of prototypes and can therefore test the improved technology under extreme conditions from the outset," explained Rainer Müller-Finkeldei, Director of Product Engineering at Mercedes-Benz Trucks. "With a maximum altitude of over 2000 meters above sea level and an elevation gain of 600 meters, the route through the Simplon Pass offered ideal conditions to test the interaction of the fuel cell system with other improved components. The successful tests have demonstrated the potential and reliability of the GenH2 trucks, even in demanding conditions."

The GenH2 Truck is the flagship of Mercedes-Benz's hydrogen strategy. This truck is designed to offer a range of up to 1,000 kilometers and a payload capacity of up to 40 tonnes.

To ensure the hydrogen supply, a mobile hydrogen refueling station from Air Products was installed at the test base. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with companies like Air Products to develop the necessary hydrogen refueling infrastructure for the deployment of its trucks.

These tests represent a significant milestone in the development of fuel cell trucks, a technology that promises to revolutionize road freight transport, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Mercedes-Benz, through its Daimler Truck division, is strongly committed to hydrogen as a key solution for long-distance transport without CO2 emissions. Its strategy focuses on developing hydrogen fuel cell trucks, such as the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck, which offer range and payload capacity comparable to conventional diesel trucks.

The company believes that liquid hydrogen is the best option for long-distance transport, as it offers higher energy density and allows for greater range.