Volvo Trucks is currently conducting trials to validate its various fuel cell electric truck solutions. The second phase of tests, carried out on roads open to traffic with the active participation of customers, should start in 2025.
Electric trucks designed for long-distance transport
These vehicles have the ability to operate without emitting polluting particles. Only water vapour, resulting from the production of electricity by the fuel cell from on-board hydrogen, will be released into the ambient air. According to statements from Volvo Trucks, their autonomy would be equivalent to that of a diesel truck, ie approximately 1,000 km. The recharge time of the two batteries should be less than a quarter of an hour.
On a theoretical level, such characteristics therefore make the hydrogen fuel cell electric truck the ideal candidate to meet the needs of long-distance transport. This new generation vehicle is also a credible alternative to the current lack of structures for recharging electric batteries.
Essential pilot tests
This second phase of testing will aim to confront this truck with the harsh realities of the field. It will take place exclusively in Northern Europe, a region that often offers difficult driving conditions, especially during the cold season. The behavior of the truck and the reliability of its components will then be studied closely.
The main difficulty of this important stage of the validation process will concern the supply of hydrogen. Faced with the lack of availability of this element, the filling of the vehicles tested will therefore be carried out only at the depot.