© Daimler Truck AG
Daimler Truck has taken its next-generation Mercedes-Benz GenH2 hydrogen fuel cell trucks to the Swiss Alps for winter testing. Two prototypes running on liquid hydrogen underwent a 14-day trial in the Simplon Pass in the Swiss Canton of Valais, facing cold temperatures, steep gradients, and heavy snow. The goal: to evaluate the trucks’ performance in real conditions and push the technology to its limits.
Testing in Tough Terrain
The two hydrogen-powered trucks covered 6,500 kilometers and climbed 83,000 meters. The test route included long gradients of 10 to 12% and an altitude gain from 600 to over 2,000 meters. This environment provided data on the performance of the fuel cell system, high-voltage battery, e-axle, tank system, thermal management, and regenerative braking on steep downhill sections.
Daimler engineers also tested the Predictive Powertrain Controls system, which adjusts power use based on the terrain. According to Dr. Rainer Müller-Finkeldei, Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Product Engineering, these trials build on earlier hydrogen prototypes and show the improved system’s reliability.
© Daimler Truck AG
Mobile Hydrogen Refueling in Action
The hydrogen trucks were refueled using a mobile hydrogen station from Air Products, showing a possible solution for early hydrogen logistics. This setup suggests that infrastructure for commercial hydrogen fleets could start with mobile refueling rather than permanent stations, especially for long-haul routes.
The trucks use liquid hydrogen instead of compressed gas, allowing for greater energy storage and longer range—important for heavy-duty transport where frequent stops are impractical.
Backed by EU and German Government Funding
This testing is part of a larger initiative supported by €226 million in funding from the German Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and Transport (BMDV) and the states of Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate. The funding, granted under the EU’s IPCEI Hydrogen program, supports vehicle development, small-scale production, feasibility studies, and factory investments.
Final assembly of the GenH2 trucks will take place at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, with the first customer deliveries expected by late 2026. Daimler plans to roll out an initial fleet of 100 fuel cell trucks, marking a step toward commercial hydrogen-powered transport.
Hydrogen Trucks Gaining Speed
Daimler’s GenH2 trucks are moving from prototypes to real-world trials, showing they can handle tough conditions. While infrastructure is still a challenge, the technology is proving roadworthy. Successfully climbing Alpine passes in winter conditions is a strong sign that these trucks are ready for major highways and long-haul routes across Europe.
