A hydrogen-powered, zero-emission Daimler Truck recently completed its record-breaking 1,047-kilometer (650-mile) journey on a single tank in Germany. This is a significant milestone for the development of hydrogen fuel cell technology and its potential to decarbonize long-haul trucking.

Hydrogen fuel cells have the potential to revolutionize the transportation industry by providing a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The recent record-breaking journey by the Daimler Truck is a clear demonstration of the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology for long-haul trucking. The truck was able to travel over 650 miles on a single tank of hydrogen, which is comparable to the range of diesel-powered trucks.

However, reports indicate that hydrogen technology is still holding back, even as the world races towards clean energy. According to experts, the niche technology has several hurdles to overcome before gaining momentum.

Hydrogen fuel is generated through a process called water electrolysis. However, it is only considered environmentally friendly or “green” if the electricity required for the process is obtained from renewable sources such as wind or solar power. Hydrogen produced using coal or natural gas is more widely available but less eco-friendly.

The advancement of clean hydrogen has been hindered by technical challenges, high costs, and a lack of infrastructure. Despite these challenges, German companies such as Daimler Truck and Bosch are optimistic that hydrogen will play a significant role in reducing road transport emissions, alongside battery-powered electric vehicles.

Andreas Gorbach, the head of technology at Daimler Truck, has stated that both hydrogen and battery-electric trucks are required to decarbonize transport. He also mentioned that hydrogen trucks are ideal for demanding long-distance haulage, while battery-electric trucks are better suited for plannable routes with plenty of charging options.

Daimler Truck is planning to start series production of hydrogen trucks in the second half of the decade. However, the success of hydrogen trucks will depend on two major factors: the rollout of refueling stations and the availability of green energy at a competitive cost.

However, the hydrogen fuel cell technology used in the truck emits only water vapor, unlike diesel, which is known to contribute to global warming.

Petra Dick-Walther, the state secretary for economic affairs in Germany”s Rhineland-Palatinate region, praised the truck”s ability to transport a heavy load over a long distance in an environmentally friendly manner. Daimler Truck, one of the world”s largest truck manufacturers, considers the 1,000-kilometer range achieved by the truck as “another milestone” for hydrogen-powered driving.