Daimler Truck is gearing up for the first customer test fleet deployment of its GenH2 fuel cell trucks. This marks a pivotal moment after an extensive testing phase on tracks and roads, signaling a shift towards real-world applications.
The chosen quintet of companies, including Amazon, Air Products, Ineos, Holcim, and Wiedmann & Winz, will host five GenH2 trucks, showcasing the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology in long-distance logistics.
The deployment of GenH2 in real-world scenarios serves a dual purpose, as articulated by Andreas Gorbach, Member of the Board of Directors of Daimler Truck. Not only do customers get hands-on experience with fuel cell technology in practical use, but it also provides invaluable insights to Daimler’s engineering team. This feedback loop ensures that customer needs and relevant use cases are thoroughly understood and considered in the ongoing series development.
A notable aspect of this initiative is the introduction of a new liquid hydrogen refueling process termed “sLH2” (subcooled liquid hydrogen). Developed in collaboration with Linde, this technology, offered freely through an ISO standard, enhances storage density and facilitates quicker refueling, with a remarkable 10 to 15-minute timeframe. The GenH2 trucks will utilize public liquid hydrogen filling stations in Wörth-am-Rhein and the Duisburg region, ushering in a new era of hydrogen-powered logistics.
The trucks in this initial fleet will be tasked with transporting diverse cargo, including construction materials, maritime containers, and bottled gas. Andreas Marschner, Vice President of Amazon Transportation Services, expresses enthusiasm about participating in this pilot project, aligning with Amazon’s broader commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. This endeavor aligns with the broader industry shift towards eco-friendly haulage and sustainable logistics solutions.
