Daimler Truck has been granted €226 million (₹1,986 crore) in funding from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) and the states of Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate. This financial support will accelerate the development, small-series production, and deployment of 100 hydrogen-powered fuel cell trucks. The proposal was thoroughly reviewed, including approval from the European Commission.
Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck, stated, “This funding approval marks a major step toward advancing hydrogen in freight transport. It is a strong endorsement for Daimler Truck and the entire commercial vehicle sector.”
Federal Minister Dr Volker Wissing added, “Hydrogen-powered transportation is a reality today. Daimler Truck leads the way as the first European manufacturer of series-production trucks using liquid hydrogen, paving the path for sustainable freight solutions. This initiative, supported with €226 million, will provide vital insights into future transportation technologies.”
The funding stems from the European Union’s IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) Hydrogen program and supports both vehicle development and production. It will also explore the hydrogen value chain and invest in facilities to prepare for mass production. Daimler Truck is contributing a substantial portion of the investment alongside the funding.
Production will involve multiple German facilities:
- Kassel will produce electric drive axles.
- Mannheim will house a “Tech Tower” for innovation.
- Fuel cells will originate from cellcentric’s pilot production in Esslingen and be assembled at the Gaggenau plant.
- Final assembly will occur at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, with customer operations planned by late 2026.
The use of liquid hydrogen in these trucks brings significant benefits, including reduced transportation efforts, lighter tanks, and higher payload capacities. These advancements make the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck a robust alternative for long-haul transportation, comparable to conventional diesel trucks.
In 2023, Daimler Truck showcased this potential when the GenH2 Truck prototype completed the #HydrogenRecordRun, traveling 1,047 km on a single liquid hydrogen tank. The same proven technology will power the fuel cell trucks funded under this initiative.
A Dual Approach: Hydrogen and Battery Solutions
As part of its commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement, Daimler Truck aims to offer CO2-neutral vehicles in key markets by 2039. The company sees battery-electric trucks as ideal for short and predictable routes, while hydrogen fuel cell trucks are better suited for heavy-duty and long-haul operations. Both technologies, combined with the development of renewable energy infrastructure, are seen as essential for achieving sustainable commercial transportation globally.
