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Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility (HHM) is pushing deeper into Europe’s municipal and waste management sectors with new hydrogen-powered variants of its XCIENT Fuel Cell truck. The company has launched hook-lift and refuse collection models, marking the first time its proven fuel cell platform is available for non-haulage applications in Europe.
Available in both 4×2 and 6×2 configurations, the new vehicles pair Hyundai’s 400-kilometer-range hydrogen-electric drivetrain with specialist body systems developed by Meiller and Terberg. These additions aim to replace diesel trucks in municipal services with zero-emission alternatives that offer equivalent payloads, full-day operability, and 15-minute refueling times.
“Hyundai has long been a pioneer of the sustainable hydrogen ecosystem. Our goal is clear: we must decarbonize transport,” said Beat Hirschi, CEO of Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility AG. “With more than 15 million kilometers and over 12,000 tonnes of CO₂ saved on Swiss roads alone, the XCIENT Fuel Cell proves it works.”
Built for Demanding, Predictable Duty Cycles
The roll-off version of the new truck features a Meiller hooklift system, compatible with containers from 5.25 to 7.0 meters. For refuse collection, the Terberg HS eSpeedline system offers a body volume of up to 30 m³ and supports 7–8 hours of self-powered operation—enough for a full shift on city routes.
These sectors present ideal use cases for hydrogen drivetrains due to their heavy-duty, stop-start cycles and strict uptime demands. Unlike battery-electric trucks, which often require oversized battery packs or auxiliary systems for bin-lifting and compacting, hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity continuously, supporting both propulsion and auxiliary functions without sacrificing payload or range.
That said, energy for bodywork operations still draws from the onboard hydrogen store, which can reduce range under heavy use. A small buffer battery or capacitor typically manages power spikes, adding some system complexity.
Deployment Backed by European Support Network
The trucks are produced in Korea and equipped with their body systems in Europe. Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility AG and its Munich-based subsidiary HHMG are managing rollout and support across Switzerland, Germany, and other European markets.
With orders now open, Hyundai is offering what it calls a ready-to-deploy solution for municipal operators. The chassis supports gross vehicle weights of 36 or 42 tonnes, depending on configuration, and is being offered alongside service and maintenance packages to reduce fleet risk.
“Many waste management companies and fleet operators are entering new territory with hydrogen-electric drive,” said Hirschi. “That’s why service, maintenance and investment security are so critical. This is where Hyundai excels.”
