Daimler Trucks expanded its vehicle range with the introduction of hydrogen-fueled trucks in the second half of the decade.
Hydrogen-based propulsion is claimed to be a better solution, especially for flexible needs to meet the needs of long-distance freight transportation. These trucks have the same uses as conventional trucks, when choosing a vehicle, transportation companies make rational purchasing decisions based on the total cost of ownership.
Daimler Truck engineers developed the GenH2 Truck based on the characteristics of conventional Mercedes-Benz Actros long-haul trucks in terms of payload, range and performance. The goal is to offer a manufactured GenH2 Truck variant with a payload of 25 tonnes and a gross weight of 40 tonnes.
Two special liquid hydrogen tanks and a fuel cell system allow the truck to have high payloads over long distances. This tank is made of stainless steel and is intended for the GenH2 Truck series version with a storage capacity of 80 kilograms (40 kg each).
In the GenH2 Truck version, the fuel cell system will supply 2 x150 kilowatts and the battery will provide an additional 400 kW for additional. At 70 kWh, the storage capacity of the battery is relatively low, as it is not intended to meet energy requirements, but to provide situational power support to the fuel cell, for example during peak loads during acceleration or when climbing on a full charge.
At the same time, the relatively light battery allows for a higher charge. This battery can also be recharged with regenerative braking energy such as excess fuel cell energy. In the pre-series version, both electric motors are designed for a total continuous power of 2 x 230 kW and a maximum power of 2 x 330 kW. Torque is 2 x 1577 Nm and 2 x 2071 Nm, respectively.
Together with the Volvo Group, Daimler Trucks is committed to hydrogen-based fuel cells. The two companies set up their cellcentric joint venture in 2021. To that end, the company plans to establish one of the largest series production facilities in Europe starting in 2025.
