Scania has started to create its version of the Green Hydrogen HyTruck project. Their focus is on the development of a 20-fuel cell electric truck with Cummins Inc.
Scania has been developing its hydrogen technology for years. Whilst fully hydrogen battery-operated trucks are still the main goal, Scania has implemented batteries in every fuel cell electric truck. The main benefits include longer drive time, improved cost per km and more efficient fuel economy.
Built on battery electric vehicle platform
These new fuel cell electric trucks are going to be created on Scania’s battery electric vehicle platform and make use of Cummins’ PEM fuel cell systems as well as their hydrogen refilling and storage options. From there Cummins attaches the fuel cells to the vehicles for them to be dropped off by Hytrucks in the year 2024.
The new HyTrucks project will allow Scania to educate themselves on the installation of the fuel cell systems, the logistical and operational processes required and the end customer experience.
“We have been clear that battery-electric is what we see as the main track for all applications. That said, we are open to what our customers want also with regards to other solutions, like hydrogen,” says Fredrik Allard, Head of E-mobility, Scania. This also strengthens Scania’s work relationship with Cummins. “In some operations and geographies where battery electric vehicles are not optimal, we see that fuel cell electric vehicles will be used. We keep a close dialogue with our customers on what is best both for their total operating economy and our planet.”
Scania is trying to move towards sustainable transport but to increase the speed of development, all renewable sources must be explored. Hydrogen is an efficient way of storing energy over long periods of time. Scania is invested in green hydrogen and what roles it may play in the future of renewable clean energy. It might not be the best option for efficiency-wise but, it is carbon-free which is much better for the environment. Keep an eye out for Scania hydrogen-based energy in the future.