Daimler Truck has unveiled the Mercedes-Benz NextGenH2 Truck, marking a major step forward in hydrogen-powered long‑haul transport. Building on the company’s first-generation fuel cell trucks, the NextGenH2 introduces key technological upgrades, enhanced safety features, and a clear roadmap toward small‑series production starting at the end of 2026. 

As part of this initial production run, Daimler Truck plans to manufacture 100 units of the fuel cell semi‑trailer tractor at its Wörth plant. These vehicles will be deployed with various customers to integrate near‑production‑ready hydrogen technology into real‑world operations. According to Mercedes-Benz Trucks CEO Achim Puchert, hydrogen-powered drivetrains are a crucial complement to battery-electric trucks in the company’s decarbonization strategy.

The NextGenH2 retains core strengths from the previous GenH2 model, including the use of liquid hydrogen, which enables driving ranges well over 1,000 kilometers on a single refueling. Liquid hydrogen’s high energy density allows up to 85 kg to be stored in two onboard tanks, which can be refilled in 10–15 minutes using the sLH2 standard developed with Linde—matching the refueling time and simplicity of diesel trucks. The proven cellcentric BZA150 fuel cell system returns as the heart of the drivetrain, operating as a twin unit delivering a combined 300 kW. Earlier trials showed hydrogen consumption averaging between 5.6 and 8 kg per 100 km depending on load conditions. 

A major advancement in the NextGenH2 is the integration of series‑production components from the battery‑electric Mercedes‑Benz eActros 600. These include the latest e‑axle, the aerodynamically optimized ProCabin (offering a nine percent improvement in drag), the new Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2, and an upgraded suite of safety systems. The truck also features a 101 kWh LFP buffer battery that supports both the fuel cell system and recuperation capabilities, enabling improved efficiency during braking and downhill driving.

Customer feedback from the GenH2 testing phase directly shaped several design improvements. A more compact “Tech Tower” behind the cab now offers better packaging, allowing a shorter wheelbase of 4,000 mm and increased compatibility with standard trailer combinations. New safety innovations include crash‑optimized side panels and advanced hydrogen leak detection systems that enable safe overnight stays in the cab—an important feature for long‑haul operations. 

The NextGenH2 Truck has undergone rigorous testing, including extreme‑climate trials in the Swiss Alps. Its development and upcoming customer deployment are supported by €226 million in funding from Germany’s Federal Ministry of Transport and multiple state governments. Daimler Truck aims to transition from small‑series to full‑scale fuel cell truck production in the early 2030s.

With its combination of long range, rapid refueling, and advanced safety and efficiency features, the Mercedes‑Benz NextGenH2 Truck represents a significant milestone in the push toward zero‑emission long‑distance road transport.