Quick Takeaways
- Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck marks Daimler Truck’s next step in long-haul hydrogen mobility.
- The hydrogen-powered truck targets 1,000 km range with fast refueling and zero tailpipe emissions.
On January 26, Daimler Truck introduced the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck, a next-generation hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicle developed for long-haul transport. As part of a limited pilot phase, 100 units will be produced at the Wörth plant in Germany, with customer operations scheduled to begin from late 2026.
Liquid hydrogen technology enables long-haul capability
The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck advances the technical foundation of the earlier GenH2 Truck while retaining liquid hydrogen as its core energy carrier. This approach enables driving ranges exceeding 1,000 km even under full payload conditions, positioning the truck for demanding long-distance logistics applications.
Power generation is handled by the BZA150 fuel cell system supplied by Cellcentric, the fuel cell joint venture between Daimler Truck and Volvo Group. The system converts hydrogen into electricity on board, supporting continuous long-haul operation without combustion.
Larger hydrogen storage and rapid refueling
Daimler Truck continues to prioritize liquid hydrogen due to its significantly higher energy density compared to gaseous hydrogen. The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck features enlarged tanks capable of storing up to 85 kg of liquid hydrogen, extending operational range while maintaining payload efficiency.
Refueling is carried out via the jointly developed sLH2 tank system, enabling complete refueling in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This rapid turnaround aligns refueling times with those of conventional diesel trucks, improving fleet usability.
Dual fuel cell architecture boosts performance
The drive system integrates two compact fuel cell units, each delivering 150 kW, resulting in a combined output of 300 kW. Installed beneath the cab, the system works in combination with a high-voltage battery to supply power to the electric motors.
Performance remains consistent across operating conditions, delivering up to 340 kW in economy mode and up to 370 kW in power mode. The fuel cell electric system emits only water vapor, maintaining zero tailpipe emissions even under heavy load or gradient operation.
Battery and drivetrain derived from eActros platform
Energy storage is supported by a 101 kWh high-voltage battery developed in-house by Daimler Truck. The battery uses LFP chemistry and captures energy recovered during braking, improving overall system efficiency.
The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck also adopts the electric drive axle used in the eActros 600, paired with a 4-speed transmission optimized for long-distance efficiency and torque delivery.
Advanced electronics, safety, and cab design
High-voltage components and the latest E/E architecture are shared with the eActros 600 platform. This includes the aerodynamic ProCabin design, advanced e-axle integration, Interactive 2 digital cockpit, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems.
Safety technologies include Active Brake Assist 6, Front Guard Assist, and Active Sideguard Assist 2, supported by updated cybersecurity protection to meet modern vehicle software requirements.
Public funding supports development and testing
Development and validation of the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck are supported by EUR 226 million in funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport, along with the federal states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg.
Based on current planning, Daimler Truck expects series production of fuel cell electric trucks to commence in the early 2030s, aligning with the gradual expansion of hydrogen infrastructure across key freight corridors.
Liquid hydrogen technology enables long-haul capability
The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck advances the technical foundation of the earlier GenH2 Truck while retaining liquid hydrogen as its core energy carrier. This approach enables driving ranges exceeding 1,000 km even under full payload conditions, positioning the truck for demanding long-distance logistics applications.
Power generation is handled by the BZA150 fuel cell system supplied by Cellcentric, the fuel cell joint venture between Daimler Truck and Volvo Group. The system converts hydrogen into electricity on board, supporting continuous long-haul operation without combustion.
Larger hydrogen storage and rapid refueling
Daimler Truck continues to prioritize liquid hydrogen due to its significantly higher energy density compared to gaseous hydrogen. The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck features enlarged tanks capable of storing up to 85 kg of liquid hydrogen, extending operational range while maintaining payload efficiency.
Refueling is carried out via the jointly developed sLH2 tank system, enabling complete refueling in approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This rapid turnaround aligns refueling times with those of conventional diesel trucks, improving fleet usability.
Dual fuel cell architecture boosts performance
The drive system integrates two compact fuel cell units, each delivering 150 kW, resulting in a combined output of 300 kW. Installed beneath the cab, the system works in combination with a high-voltage battery to supply power to the electric motors.
Performance remains consistent across operating conditions, delivering up to 340 kW in economy mode and up to 370 kW in power mode. The fuel cell electric system emits only water vapor, maintaining zero tailpipe emissions even under heavy load or gradient operation.
Battery and drivetrain derived from eActros platform
Energy storage is supported by a 101 kWh high-voltage battery developed in-house by Daimler Truck. The battery uses LFP chemistry and captures energy recovered during braking, improving overall system efficiency.
The Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck also adopts the electric drive axle used in the eActros 600, paired with a 4-speed transmission optimized for long-distance efficiency and torque delivery.
Advanced electronics, safety, and cab design
High-voltage components and the latest E/E architecture are shared with the eActros 600 platform. This includes the aerodynamic ProCabin design, advanced e-axle integration, Interactive 2 digital cockpit, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems.
Safety technologies include Active Brake Assist 6, Front Guard Assist, and Active Sideguard Assist 2, supported by updated cybersecurity protection to meet modern vehicle software requirements.
Public funding supports development and testing
Development and validation of the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck are supported by EUR 226 million in funding from the German Federal Ministry of Transport, along with the federal states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg.
Based on current planning, Daimler Truck expects series production of fuel cell electric trucks to commence in the early 2030s, aligning with the gradual expansion of hydrogen infrastructure across key freight corridors.
Company Press Release
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