Considering a hydrogen truck? Here are 7 questions you need to ask

If you’re considering a hydrogen truck as part of your fleet, it’s natural to have more questions than answers. The technology is evolving rapidly, but the market is still young. Instead of asking, “Should we invest in hydrogen?” ask, “What solution makes sense for our type of operation?”

This article will show you what to ask a hydrogen truck supplier – before you decide.

1. Is the vehicle fully homologated?

You can’t hit the road without EU homologation. Check that your vehicle is validly approved to European standards and that you can drive it without restrictions or exemptions. Also ask about certificates for working with hydrogen – such as ISO 19880-1 for safety standards.

2. What is the real range and how is the filling process?

The range of a hydrogen truck can vary between 600 and 750 km – depending on the weight of the load, the type of route and the driving style. Check how many kg of hydrogen the tank can hold, how long it takes to fill up and what the average real-world range is under full load.

Important: make sure the tank is compatible with standard filling stations in your region (350 bar vs. 700 bar).

3. Is the vehicle tested in real operation?

Not all vehicles that look great on PowerPoint can handle real road traffic. Check which partners the supplier works with and whether the vehicle has been tested with real loads.

🔗 Example of real testing with METRANS (post on LinkedIn)

4. How is service and maintenance provided?

Service is a common concern with new technologies. Ask:

🔹 Who will service the vehicle and where?
🔹 Are the mechanics trained on the high pressure hydrogen system?
🔹 How are software updates and diagnostics performed?

A reliable partner will also provide training for your staff or provide a field technician.

5. How reliable is the vehicle in demanding conditions?

Find out if the truck has been tested in extreme weather – in heat, freezing temperatures or hilly terrain. Also inquire about the availability of remote diagnostics and consumption monitoring so you can prevent breakdowns.

6. What are the operating costs?

Although the investment in a hydrogen truck may be higher, the operating costs can be favourable. Find out:

🔹 Consumption in kg H₂/100 km at different loads.
🔹 Total TCO (Total Cost of Ownership).
🔹 Subsidy and grant opportunities in your country.

7. Can the supplier also help you with a system solution?

A strong partner doesn’t just sell the truck – it’s the overall system.

Check if the supplier can also help with:

🔹 Filling station logistics.
🔹 By planning routes.
🔹 Integration with software solutions.

Companies like Mobility & Innovation Production are looking not just at the vehicle, but at the entire transportation ecosystem – from batteries to hydrogen to fleet management.

Conclusion

Investing in a hydrogen truck is not just about the technology. It’s a decision that will affect your processes, logistics and reputation. So ask more, ask better – and choose a partner who will give you answers without shying away.