The BMW Group has introduced two zero-emission fuel cell trucks as part of a pilot initiative under the European H2Haul project, which aims to advance hydrogen mobility in freight transport. These trucks will operate between Leipzig, Landsberg, and Nuremberg to assess the feasibility of hydrogen-powered logistics.
To support large-scale deployment, two cutting-edge hydrogen refuelling stations are being constructed in Leipzig and Hormersdorf, enabling rapid refueling essential for continuous truck operations. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Iveco, DHL, and TEAL Mobility to drive sustainable logistics solutions forward.
“In global logistics, it is important to select the right means of transport, in order to operate in a future-oriented and efficient manner. To this end, the openness to technology in the BMW Group is also reflected in its transport logistics. For the first time, hydrogen-powered trucks will now be used in serial operation for German automobile production. We have been working with our partners for several years to implement this pilot fleet. This project is an important milestone as we gain experience in serial operation and continue to advance this important technology,” says Michael Nikolaides, Head of Production Network and Logistics BMW Group.
BMW Group Integrates Hydrogen Trucks into Logistics Operations
As part of the H2Haul project, BMW Group Logistics will operate two of the 16 IVECO S-eWay Fuel Cell trucks being tested across Europe. Funded by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, the initiative aims to assess hydrogen trucks in real-world conditions and support their commercialization for decarbonizing heavy transport.
With short refuelling times and extended ranges, hydrogen trucks serve as a valuable complement to BMW’s existing E-truck fleet, offering flexible logistics without requiring additional charging infrastructure. Insights from these trials will contribute to advancing fuel cell technology for widespread adoption in freight transport.
BMW Group’s Strategy for Zero-Emission Logistics
BMW Group’s participation in the H2Haul project aligns with its Reduced Logistics Emissions Strategy, aimed at achieving zero-emission transport. A dedicated cross-departmental team develops CO2 reduction concepts across global logistics—spanning road, rail, and sea—by evaluating future drive technologies. Successful pilot projects and plant concepts contribute to emission data analysis, supporting the company’s climate goals and the transition to sustainable logistics.
BMW Group Advances Hydrogen Truck Trials for Sustainable Logistics
As part of the H2Haul project, BMW Group will test two IVECO S-eWay Fuel Cell trucks to evaluate their role in decarbonizing freight transport. Funded by the Clean Hydrogen Partnership, the initiative aims to commercialize hydrogen-powered trucks by demonstrating their efficiency in real-world conditions.
With rapid refuelling and extended ranges, hydrogen trucks complement BMW’s E-truck fleet, enhancing logistics without requiring additional charging infrastructure. This initiative supports the BMW Group Strategy for Reduced Logistics Emissions, contributing to the broader adoption of zero-emission transport solutions.
BMW Group Expands Hydrogen Initiatives in Logistics and Production
Alongside the H2Haul project, BMW Group leads the HyCET project to test H2 combustion engine trucks, deploying two 40-ton and one 18-ton truck for logistics. Funded by the BMDV, the project includes partners like DHL, Volvo Trucks, Deutz, KEYOU, and TotalEnergies. By testing both fuel cell and combustion hydrogen trucks on the same routes, BMW aims to determine their optimal applications.
At Plant Leipzig, BMW has pioneered hydrogen use in logistics, operating over 200 fuel cell-powered industrial trucks and five hydrogen refuelling stations. The plant is also transitioning its paintshop burners from natural gas to hydrogen, advancing CO2 reduction efforts.
Looking ahead, BMW will launch its first hydrogen-powered production model in 2028, integrating fuel cell technology into its lineup alongside BEVs, PHEVs, and ICE vehicles, reinforcing its commitment to diverse sustainable mobility solutions.
