Mercedes-Benz NextGen H2 Truck: 1,000 km range and €220 million infrastructure boost

Two major developments converged this week in hydrogen transport: Daimler Truck unveiled the Mercedes-Benz NextGen H2 Truck, while Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport announced €220 million in funding for hydrogen refuelling stations and vehicles. Together, they send a clear signal that the hydrogen freight ecosystem is maturing fast.

The tech specs

The NextGen H2 Truck is built around a dual fuel cell system by cellcentric, delivering a combined output of 300 kW (2 x 150 kW). Two liquid hydrogen tanks offer a combined capacity of up to 85 kg, enabling a range of well over 1,000 km when fully loaded. Refuelling takes just 10 to 15 minutes via the sLH2 standard — on par with diesel.

The drivetrain is equally impressive: an integrated e-axle with two electric motors, a 4-speed transmission and up to 370 kW of output. A shortened wheelbase allows for more trailer combinations, while a new boil-off management system enables parking in enclosed spaces and overnight stays in the cab.

Moving towards the tipping point

Daimler Truck plans to put 100 H2 trucks into customer operations from end of 2026 onwards. This is more than a field trial — it marks the first step towards the tipping point where available trucks, a growing refuelling network, and competitive hydrogen prices reinforce each other. Beyond that point, the system accelerates itself and today's subsidies become unnecessary.

Hydrogen and battery-electric trucks are not rivals but complements. Building both infrastructures simultaneously is faster and requires less investment than scaling one alone — especially as power grids increasingly hit their limits, making hydrogen an essential parallel route to decarbonisation.