Daimler Truck is taking another major step toward carbon-neutral road transport with the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck, its new-generation fuel cell truck. Starting in late 2026, a small series of 100 vehicles will be put into service with customers, marking a concrete step toward the industrialization of hydrogen in long-distance transport.
Based on the GenH2 experience, the NextGenH2 retains proven technologies such as the cellcentric fuel cell andliquid hydrogen, while incorporating key innovations from the eActros 600 electric truck: integrated electric axle, aerodynamic ProCabin cab, new Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2, and latest-generation driver assistance systems.
Thanks to liquid hydrogen, the truck has a range of over 1,000 km, with rapid refueling in 10 to 15 minutes, comparable to filling up with diesel. Two fuel cells, each with a capacity of 150 kW, power the electric drivetrain, emitting only one thing: water vapor.
For Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, the challenge is clear:
"In addition to battery-powered electric vehicles, hydrogen is essential for the sustainable transformation of transportation. With the NextGenH2 Truck, we are bringing fuel cell technology into everyday operations as early as 2026."
More compact, safer, and compatible with a wide range of trailers, the NextGenH2 Truck was designed based on customer feedback and tested under extreme conditions. Backed by €226 million in German public funding, it paves the way for series production in the early 2030s.
