Daimler Truck has put the first prototypes of the next generation of Mercedes-Benz fuel cell trucks through their paces in a first series of gruelling tests in the Swiss alps.
Two hydrogen trucks that are CO2e-free in driving operation were deployed and underwent an extensive and demanding test program over the course of 14 days.
They covered a total of 6500 kilometres and cross mountain roads with an accumulated climb of 83,000 metres, including particularly challenging 20-kilometre uphill and downhill stretches with gradients of 10-12 per cent.
The interaction of essential components was tested through the trials, including the fuel cell, high-voltage battery, e-axle, tank system and thermal management, with particular focus on the use of the predictive powertrain control systems, the topography-dependent cruise control.
The objective was to use the battery in combination with the fuel cell efficiently in both propulsion and recuperation while driving downhill.
Head of Mercedes-Benz Trucks Product Engineering Dr Rainer Müller-Finkeldei says the challenging conditions of the Simplon Pass in the Swiss Canton of Valais offered the perfect testing ground for the new trucks.
“For the further development of our Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck, we are seamlessly building on the experiences of the first prototype generation and are therefore able to test the improved technology under extreme conditions right from the outset,” Müller-Finkeldei says.
“With a maximum elevation of more than 2000 metres above sea level and a climb from 600 metres, the route over the Simplon Pass provided good conditions for the testing of interplay of the fuel cell system with other enhanced components.
“The successful tests have underlined the potential and reliability of the GenH2 Trucks, even under demanding conditions.”
During the test the fuel cell trucks were refuelled via a mobile hydrogen refuelling station from Air Products, which was set up at the test base in Valais.
Final assembly of the next generation fuel cell trucks is set to take place at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth and the trucks are expected to go into operation at various customers from the end of 2026 onwards.
Story with thanks to ATN Magazine