Mercedes-Benz Unleashes Hydrogen-Powered Beasts – Hydrogen Fuel News
In a groundbreaking development for the automotive industry, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and Mörtlbauer Baumaschinen Vertriebs GmbH have successfully unveiled two prototypes equipped with hydrogen combustion engines. These pioneering vehicles, which include a Unimog and a crawler, are part of the ambitious “WaVe” project funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. The project aims to explore hydrogen-based drive systems as a sustainable alternative to conventional diesel engines in high-power work machines.
From Diesel to Hydrogen: How These Mercedes-Benz Prototypes are Forging a New Path
After two years of rigorous development and testing, the hydrogen-powered Unimog and crawler have demonstrated their capabilities in real-world driving, working, and refueling operations. This milestone represents a significant leap forward in the quest for low-emission, high-efficiency heavy machinery.
What Makes These Prototypes Stand Out?
1. Minor Modifications, Major Impact:
One of the standout features of these hydrogen combustion engines is that they require only minor modifications compared to today’s diesel engines. This practical approach ensures that existing infrastructure and expertise can be leveraged, facilitating a smoother transition to greener technology.
2. Comparable Performance:
The Unimog and crawler deliver power outputs nearly identical to their diesel counterparts. The Unimog, for instance, boasts 290 hp and 1000 Nm of torque, while the crawler offers similar performance metrics with an engine output comparable to 300 hp diesel variants. Both vehicles are fueled by gaseous hydrogen stored at 700 bar pressure, with the Unimog holding around 13 kilograms and the crawler 14.5 kilograms.
3. Proven Efficiency and Low Emissions:
The hydrogen combustion engines have been thoroughly tested and validated for their efficiency and low emission levels. According to Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, “Hydrogen combustion for work machines with high power requirements, both for driving and for powering auxiliary drives, is worthwhile, practical, and very low in emissions.”
Demonstration and Practical Application
The final demonstration event held at Mörtlbauer’s premises in Fürstenzell showcased the reliability and flexibility of these prototypes. The specially converted Unimog U 430 implement carrier transported the crawler on a low loader, after which both vehicles performed live demonstrations, including refueling at a mobile hydrogen station and operating various implements like a front-mounted sweeper.
Armin Mörtlbauer, Managing Director of Mörtlbauer Baumaschinen Vertriebs GmbH, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, “The fact that our crawler and the Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks Unimog can be easily refueled with gaseous hydrogen and that these vehicles also work reliably when using implements is the result of outstanding cooperation in this research partnership.”
The Technical Backbone
Under the hood, the Unimog and crawler are equipped with medium-duty engines customized for hydrogen propulsion. This includes specialized pistons, a hydrogen-compatible intake system, and an optimized ignition system. The combustion process produces water, expelled as hot steam via the exhaust system, highlighting the environmental benefits of this technology.
The WaVe Project
Launched in July 2021, the “WaVe” project involved collaboration among eighteen partners and set out to develop hydrogen-based drive systems for work machines. The primary goal was to create innovative solutions that could replace conventional diesel engines while necessitating minimal modifications to existing drivetrain components. Following an extensive year dedicated to planning and preparation, development work on the prototypes began in mid-2022, leading to the successful presentation of these revolutionary vehicles. This initiative represents a pivotal stride towards redefining the future of sustainable transportation in heavy machinery.
Moving Forward
The success of the Unimog and crawler prototypes marks a pivotal moment in the transition toward sustainable heavy machinery. Both Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and Mörtlbauer are ready to continue down this path, provided there is enough support from government and society.
As Armin Mörtlbauer aptly put it, “If the government and society choose to follow the path toward hydrogen combustion engines, we are ready to go.”
This development not only underscores the potential of hydrogen technology in reducing emissions but also sets a precedent for future innovations in the automotive industry. The transition from diesel to hydrogen is not just a possibility; it is a tangible reality, thanks to projects like WaVe and the dedicated efforts of industry pioneers.
