Volvo Trucks is already testing hydrogen-powered trucks with a range of 1,000 km

Many major vehicle manufacturers are actively working to develop their own hydrogen fuel cell solutions, and Volvo Trucks appears to be in the lead. The Swedish truck manufacturer has officially announced that prototypes of hydrogen fuel cell tractors have already been sent for testing, although so far only within a special test site. But the results are already impressive – a vehicle with a full load of 65 tons is capable of covering a distance of one thousand kilometers on one refueling of hydrogen, while emitting only water vapor, which, of course, does not harm the environment.

It is worth noting that hydrogen fuel cells are much better suited for long-haul trucks than battery solutions, since tractors using this type of fuel can cover huge distances between refueling, plus there is no need to carry impressive batteries in addition to cargo. In addition, Volvo Trucks prototypes, according to the company’s press release, can very quickly restore the fuel in the tank – the vehicle replenishes hydrogen fuel in just 15 minutes, getting another one thousand kilometers. This is much more efficient than charging batteries with electricity, which takes much more time.

On the other hand, Volvo Trucks softly sidesteps the most important disadvantage of hydrogen fuel and hydrogen cell vehicles – storing, transporting and refueling hydrogen costs a hefty amount of money. Accordingly, for now, trucks will continue to drive around the prepared landfill, demonstrating the advantages of hydrogen, fast refueling and impressive range, but outside of testing this energy source is not yet ready for use. This will probably change in the future, and then diesel trucks will simply die out, but no one can say when that will be.

Source: Trash Box

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