The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV), alongside the federal states of Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate, has approved €226 million in funding for the development, small-series production, and deployment of 100 hydrogen fuel cell trucks. The funding, also reviewed by the European Commission, supports the commercial vehicle industry’s advancement in hydrogen technology for road freight transportation.
Daimler Truck’s hydrogen-powered trucks, set to begin operations at the end of 2026, will utilise liquid hydrogen for a range exceeding 1,000 kilometres. Liquid hydrogen offers higher energy density compared to gaseous hydrogen, making it a viable alternative to conventional diesel trucks.
This initiative is part of the European Union’s Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) Hydrogen programme, which supports vehicle and production-related activities, including feasibility studies and investments in production facilities. Daimler Truck will receive around two-thirds of the total eligible amount, with other partners also involved in the hydrogen value chain. Key components of the trucks will be assembled at various German production sites, with final assembly at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth.
The funding also supports feasibility studies and production investments, positioning Rhineland-Palatinate and Baden-Württemberg as hubs of industry and innovation.
The project anticipates the delivery of 100 IPCEI-funded fuel cell trucks by the end of 2026, contributing to the EU’s climate goals and advancing hydrogen technology in heavy-duty transportation.