The latest zero emissions truck – thanks to fuel cells – has been debuted by Volvo Trucks.
The technology means a vehicle that offers a driving range of more than 600 miles.
Therefore, sceptical truck drivers have a viable alternative to battery powered trucks.
The fuel cells on the new vehicles will be powered by hydrogen, which has a growing fuelling infrastructure across Europe.
Volvo revealed that the new trucks are currently undergoing test and development work at the moment.
In other words, the company is committed to introducing the technology into its trucks, alongside the battery electric models.
This news was confirmed by Volvo Trucks president, Roger Alm, who revealed the company had worked with fuel cells for years.
“It feels great to see the first trucks successfully running on the test track,” said Alm.
“The combination of battery electric and fuel cell electric will enable our customers to completely eliminate CO2 exhaust emissions from their trucks,
With a range that is comparable with diesel trucks one question mark is over the refuelling time.
However, Volvo promises that the cells can be replenished in just 15 minutes.
The total weight can be around 65 tonnes or even higher, while the two fuel cells have the capacity to generate 300kW of electricity onboard.
Pilot projects with customers will start in a few years, with full production started before 2030.
Continuing, Alm added: “Hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric trucks will be especially suitable for long distances and heavy, energy-demanding assignments.
“In addition, they could be an option in countries where battery charging possibilities are limited.”
The fuel cells will be supplied by Cellcentric – the joint venture between the Volvo Group and Daimler Truck AG.
As a result, the JV will build one of Europe’s largest series production facilities for fuel cells for heavy vehicles.
