First 40-ton truck with hydrogen drive in operation

DB Schenker, one of the world’s leading logistics service providers, is using the first hydrogen-powered semitrailer tractor approved for regular operations in Germany.

The fuel cell truck, manufactured by Hyzon, is being operated by DB Schenker’s Cologne branch in daily service between Cologne and Eupen (Belgium). DB Schenker is thus the first logistics service provider in Germany to operate a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) in the 40-ton class.

Cyrille Bonjean commented, “The deployment of the first hydrogen-powered 40-ton vehicle in cross-border traffic between Germany and Belgium is a milestone achievement in the context of our long-term sustainability goals. 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.”

Ralf Többe added, “The greater Cologne area is very well suited for the deployment of our first hydrogen-powered semitrailer tractor in Germany, especially thanks to the well-developed refueling infrastructure in this region. Further FCEVs are planned.”

The state-of-the-art Hyzon semitrailer tractor with fuel cell technology has the best prerequisites for reliable operation on the selected route. Its range is around 400 kilometers, while at the same time, the maximum payload is higher than for 100% electrically powered trucks. Another major advantage of hydrogen technology in everyday use is the fast refueling process of around 15 minutes.