Daimler Truck has introduced the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck. The fuel cell truck is set to be deployed in a small series of 100 vehicles for long-distance transport by the end of 2026. Production will take place at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth.
The NextGenH2 Truck is based on the GenH2 prototype and continues to use liquid hydrogen as an energy carrier. This enables ranges of over 1,000 kilometres with one tank filling. Refuelling with Daimler Truck and Linde's sLH2 standard is expected to take 10 to 15 minutes.
The core of the drive is the BZA150 fuel cell from Cellcentric, a joint venture between Daimler Truck and the Volvo Group. Two units, each with 150 kW output, are housed as a twin system in the engine compartment. Initial tests showed hydrogen consumption between 5.6 and 8 kg per 100 kilometres, depending on use.
Daimler Truck
The new generation adopts key components from the battery-electric eActros 600. These include the aerodynamically optimised ProCabin, the integrated e-axle, a high-voltage battery with 101 kWh capacity based on LFP, as well as modern safety and assistance systems.
The vehicle's output is up to 340 kW in Economy mode and 370 kW in Power mode. The e-axle allows efficient recuperation, increasing the range.
With a more compact design featuring a shortened wheelbase of 4,000 millimetres, the truck is compatible with various trailers. A new boil-off management system allows parking in enclosed spaces. Hydrogen detection sensors enable the use of the sleeper cab even during overnight stays.
The development and testing of the NextGenH2 Truck were conducted, among other places, in the Swiss Alps. The project is funded with a total of 226 million euros by the Federal Ministry of Transport and the states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg.
According to Daimler Truck, series production of fuel cell trucks is planned for the early 2030s.
Daimler Truck
