The “MAN hTGX” is aimed at niche applications where battery-electric trucks are not ideal. This could include heavy goods transport sectors like construction, tank transport, or timber transport. It might also be suitable in areas lacking sufficient charging infrastructure or where hydrogen is readily available.
MAN will prioritize battery-electric trucks for most applications, with the first customer deliveries planned for 2024 and wider availability from 2025. The company has held the leading position in electric city buses within Europe since 2023.
“We view battery-electric vehicles as the primary solution for decarbonizing road freight transport,” said Friedrich Baumann, MAN Truck & Bus board member for Sales & Customer Solution. “However, hydrogen combustion engines can be a valuable addition for specific applications and markets.”
The hydrogen engine offers advantages for special transport tasks requiring specific axle configurations or limited frame space for batteries due to bodywork needs. The hTGX boasts high payloads and a maximum range of up to 600 kilometers in its initial 6×2 and 6×4 variants.
The engine delivers 383 kW (520 hp) and 2500 Nm torque. Direct hydrogen injection ensures rapid power delivery. Refueling with 700 bar compressed hydrogen (CG H2) from a 56 kg tank takes less than 15 minutes. With emissions under 1g CO2/tkm, the hTGX qualifies as a “zero-emission vehicle” under upcoming EU regulations.
“The new EU CO2 regulations will categorize hydrogen combustion engine trucks as zero-emission,” said Dr. Frederik Zohm, MAN Truck & Bus board member for Research & Development. “This allows them to contribute to our CO2 fleet targets and opens the door for this complementary series alongside battery-electric vehicles.”
MAN highlights its extensive experience with hydrogen technology. The company showcased its first hydrogen-powered bus at the 1996 Hanover Fair, and it continues to develop and test hydrogen engines for various applications beyond commercial vehicles.
MAN will offer comprehensive service and consulting to support customers transitioning from diesel to zero-emission vehicles, mirroring its approach with electric mobility.