MAN Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trucks Begin Bayernflotte Road Testing

MAN begins hydrogen truck road testing under Bayernflotte project

MAN hydrogen fuel cell trucks have entered the road testing phase under the Bayernflotte project, representing the final stage of a research initiative supported by the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy. The project focuses on evaluating hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles in real logistics environments and gathering operational data. Three fuel cell trucks have been delivered to LoadFox Transport Solutions GmbH for regular transport operations over a three-month testing period.

The hydrogen trucks will operate between MAN facilities located in Munich, Dachau, Nuremberg, and other routes across southern Germany. The real-world logistics trials will help assess vehicle performance, operational reliability, and suitability for future commercial applications. Through this testing phase, MAN aims to collect practical insights that can support the development of future hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles while improving efficiency and reducing emissions in long-distance transportation operations.

Fuel cell technology and electric drivetrain configuration

The trucks are equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell system supplied by Bosch, combined with high-voltage batteries to support vehicle operation. The electric powertrain uses ZF’s AxTrax 2 dual electric drive axle technology, enabling efficient power delivery for heavy-duty applications. This combination of fuel cell generation, battery support, and electric axle technology demonstrates an integrated approach for developing zero-emission solutions for the commercial vehicle sector.

Hydrogen storage is enabled through 700-bar tanks supplied by Forvia, allowing the trucks to achieve a driving range of approximately 450–500 km. The vehicles generate an output of 350 kW, consume around 7–8 kg of hydrogen per 100 km, and can operate with a gross vehicle weight of up to 42 tonnes. These specifications highlight the potential of hydrogen technology for demanding logistics applications requiring high payload capability and extended operating distances.

Real-world testing to support future hydrogen mobility

During the Bayernflotte project, LoadFox will operate the hydrogen trucks in daily logistics activities to evaluate their practical performance under commercial conditions. The collected operational data will provide valuable information about energy efficiency, reliability, maintenance requirements, and overall vehicle usability. These findings will support MAN’s future product development activities and contribute toward improving hydrogen-powered transportation solutions for heavy-duty mobility applications.

The project data will also support the wider TRATON Group strategy to improve the efficiency, reliability, and commercial viability of hydrogen-powered trucks. By combining fuel cell technology, advanced electric drivetrains, and real-world fleet validation, the initiative aims to accelerate the development of sustainable solutions for future long-distance logistics operations across Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bayernflotte project testing with MAN hydrogen trucks?
The Bayernflotte project is testing hydrogen fuel cell trucks in real logistics operations to evaluate performance, reliability, efficiency, and future commercial potential. The initiative involves three vehicles operating with LoadFox Transport Solutions GmbH across southern Germany routes. The collected operational data will help MAN and TRATON improve future hydrogen-powered truck designs, digital services, and sustainable transport solutions for heavy-duty applications.