H2 semitrailer truck in German first

The fuel cell truck, manufactured by Hyzon, is in daily service between Cologne and Eupen in Belgium making DB Schenker the first logistics service provider in Germany to operate a fuel cell electric vehicle in the 40 tonne class.

DB Schenker is hiring the truck from CO2-neutral specialist renter, hylane. “Putting the first hydrogen-powered semitrailer tractor into operation in Germany together with DB Schenker is an important success,” said Sara Schiffer, managing director of hylane. “By testing the vehicles, DB Schenker is taking on a pioneering role and together we are gaining important experience for a market that is set to grow in Germany.”

The Hyzon semitrailer tractor has a range of around 400 kilometres and a maximum payload said to be higher than for 100% electrically powered trucks. Another major advantage of hydrogen technology in everyday use is the fast refuelling process of around 15 minutes.

“The deployment of the first hydrogen-powered 40 tonne vehicle in cross-border traffic between Germany and Belgium is a milestone achievement in the context of our long-term sustainability goals,” said Cyrille Bonjean, executive vice president land transport in Europe.

“It demonstrates that we are operating at the cutting edge of technology, and it is a good example of the importance of cooperating with innovative and high-performing green mobility companies.”