Rhenus Begins Real-World Trials of Hydrogen Truck

Rhenus Group has started testing a hydrogen-powered truck from Daimler Truck in real logistics operations, marking a key step in evaluating fuel cell technology for freight transport.

The trial is part of the second phase of customer-focused testing for the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck and will run for one year, with the vehicle fully integrated into daily operations at the Duisburg site in Germany.

GenH2 Truck Tested in Daily Logistics Operations

The hydrogen truck is being used five days a week across both day and night shifts, operating in real-world logistics conditions. Routes include regional trips of around 150 kilometres as well as long-haul journeys of up to 650 kilometres.

Rhenus aims to gather insights on utilisation, efficiency, and operational performance across diverse transport scenarios, including distribution and long-distance freight. High daily mileage is expected due to continuous deployment.

The Duisburg location was selected due to its role as a central logistics hub and the availability of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, which remains limited.

Focus on Range, Refuelling and Diesel Comparison

A key focus of the trial is to compare the hydrogen truck with conventional diesel vehicles. Areas of evaluation include refuelling time, operational range, and overall efficiency in day-to-day use.

Currently, only two liquid hydrogen refuelling stations are available in Germany, located in Duisburg and Wörth am Rhein. This limited infrastructure is a major constraint for large-scale adoption.

Rhenus is one of five companies participating in this phase, alongside partners such as DHL Supply Chain, Teva, Hornbach, and Reber Logistik. Each partner is operating one vehicle in regular logistics operations.

Daimler Plans Limited Production of Hydrogen Trucks

Daimler Truck plans to produce a small series of 100 hydrogen-powered tractor units at its Wörth plant, with deployment expected to begin by the end of 2026.

However, large-scale production has been delayed to the early 2030s due to slow development of hydrogen infrastructure and cost challenges. The company is continuing its dual strategy of battery-electric and hydrogen-powered trucks for the European market.

Technology Behind the GenH2 Truck

The GenH2 Truck is powered by two fuel cell systems delivering a combined output of 300 kW, supported by a 70 kWh battery that provides additional power during peak demand.

The truck features dual electric motors with high torque output and is designed for heavy-duty transport with a gross vehicle weight of around 40 tonnes and a payload of approximately 25 tonnes.

Using liquid hydrogen, the truck can achieve a range exceeding 1,000 kilometres under optimal conditions, making it suitable for long-haul operations.

Infrastructure Remains Key Challenge

Despite its potential, hydrogen trucking faces significant hurdles. Limited refuelling infrastructure, availability of green hydrogen, and cost competitiveness remain critical factors for wider adoption.

Rhenus stated that the trial will help assess the practical conditions required for scaling hydrogen-powered transport in the future.