Testing the brand-new Mercedes-Benz GenH2 fuel-cell truck is a further step in the decarbonisation of our transportation network as we transition to net-zero carbon across all our operations by 2040. Here, we offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into what it means to work with a prototype of hydrogen fuel-cell-powered vehicles.
What is GenH2?
The GenH2 trucks are based on the characteristics of conventional diesel Mercedes-Benz Actros long-haul trucks, in terms of payload, range, and performance. GenH2 hydrogen trucks offer a payload of approximately 25 tons and at a gross combination weight of 40 tons. They are also equipped with two special liquid hydrogen tanks and a fuel-cell system range comparable to diesel trucks with similar refuelling times.
The benefit of using liquid hydrogen is that it enables a higher payload, making the GenH2 truck just as suitable for flexible and demanding long-haul road transportation as conventional diesel trucks. Liquid hydrogen also enables a range of up to 1,000 kilometres.
After a rigorous testing phase on the test track and public roads, these fuel-cell trucks have now reached an advanced development stage for deployment in the first customer fleets.
“To make this project become a reality, 14 different teams within Amazon were involved,” says Nilesh Patel, Senior Project Manager at Carbon Innovations. “The enthusiasm of each person, their ability to share solutions to overcome obstacles, and their focus on delivering results were the basis that led to a successful outcome."
What GenH2 means for Amazon Freight transport services
By testing the new GenH2 truck, we have the opportunity to not only gain practical experience in operating hydrogen fuel-cell-powered vehicles, but also to help shape the development of more sustainable logistics through eco-friendly transport. On top of this, we are able to provide the Daimler Truck development team with insights into the real-life operation of a truck powered by liquid hydrogen, share our specific requirements, and pave the way for a successful series development.
At the beginning of October, we used the GenH2 truck on specific tours in our logistics operations. As we and our freight partner become familiar with its operations and review operational data, longer tours will begin.
"We remain steadfast in our Climate Pledge commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions across our operations by 2040. The decarbonisation of our transport network plays a crucial role in achieving this milestone, and we continue to invest, experiment, and innovate," said Andreas Marschner, VP, Europe Amazon Transportation Service and Worldwide Operations Sustainability. "We look forward to supporting the Daimler Truck development team in the next phase of this project."
Acknowledging we are operating a prototype vehicle, our operations will ramp up based on the vehicle’s performance.
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