BMW Group Tests Hydrogen Combustion Engine Truck in Leipzig
Leipzig, Germany — BMW Group Plant Leipzig has begun real-world testing of an 18-tonne truck featuring a hydrogen combustion engine. This innovative vehicle utilizes a piston engine derived from diesel technology, allowing for the combustion of hydrogen to produce water vapor with minimal CO₂ emissions.
Logistics Application
The hydrogen combustion truck will initially deliver parts for the Technology Exterior Components (TEK) division, which produces plastic components like bumpers and spoilers. In a subsequent phase, it will support just-in-time delivery of exterior components to the vehicle assembly line. This initiative aims to further the BMW Group’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions in logistics.
Dirk Wiedmann, head of Production Network and Logistics at BMW Group, stated, “Logistics is the backbone of our production. We are adopting a technology-open, data-based approach to identify suitable alternative truck drive trains for each specific application.”
Field Testing
The testing will include both long-distance transportation and operations in a three-shift system nearby the plant. Insights from this project will help pinpoint effective logistics applications for hydrogen combustion engine vehicles.
Complementary Technologies
Hydrogen trucks are particularly advantageous for demanding transport scenarios, where high mileage and multi-shift operations are common. Their short refueling times are expected to minimize downtime and facilitate operations in regions lacking adequate charging infrastructure.
Proven Technology Foundation
The hydrogen combustion engine builds on established diesel technology, making it easier to incorporate into current vehicle maintenance systems. It offers robust performance comparable to that of diesel engines, particularly during high loads and dynamic driving conditions. Notably, hydrogen engines exhibit less sensitivity to variations in hydrogen quality, ensuring greater reliability.
Research Collaboration
This hydrogen combustion engine testing is part of the HyCET (Hydrogen Combustion Engine Truck) initiative, supported by the German Federal Ministry of Transport. The project aims to develop and test hydrogen trucks in practical settings, pooling expertise from partners in vehicle development, infrastructure installation, and logistics. Key contributors include DEUTZ for engine development, Rudolph Logistics for truck operation, and TEAL MOBILITY for hydrogen filling stations installation.
Emission Reduction Strategy
HyCET is an integral component of BMW Group’s strategy to minimize logistics emissions. It aims to develop efficient logistics concepts and evaluate alternative drive technologies to assess their suitability for different transport needs, focusing on technical reliability, performance, emissions, cost-effectiveness, and energy infrastructure availability.
