Road transport: Scania to test 40 hydrogen trucks equipped by Toyota
As battery-powered electric trucks gain ground gradually, Scania continues to explore other options to reduce carbon emissions in road transport. The Swedish manufacturer plans to deploy 40 hydrogen-powered trucks equipped with fuel cells developed by Toyota. Full-scale trials are set to begin in 2027 with logistics companies.
As electrification slowly spreads across road transport, Scania likely does not rely solely on one technology. Alongside its 100% electric trucks, the company believes that demanding applications may require alternative solutions. Hydrogen is one of the options still under consideration.
40 hydrogen trucks to be tested
As part of its “Pilot Partner” program, Scania will equip 40 trucks with Toyota’s fuel cell technology. These vehicles will be given to logistics companies for use in their daily operations. The goal is to assess technical performance, fuel consumption, and operational challenges.
Not to mention the total cost of operation. This is a crucial factor in determining whether hydrogen can become a viable alternative to diesel and fully electric vehicles. The first units are expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2027.
A 300 kW fuel cell
Toyota will therefore provide its third-generation fuel cell system. In its version designed for heavy vehicles, it can achieve a power output of 300 kW. Toyota views heavy transport as one of the key potential markets for hydrogen. Long distances and the need to minimize downtime could theoretically favor rapid refueling.
Toyota is not starting from scratch. The manufacturer has been forming partnerships related to hydrogen in heavy transport for several years, notably with VDL and Sinotruk. It also joined Cellcentric in 2026, the joint venture created by Daimler Truck and Volvo Group focused on fuel cells. Thus, its project with Scania is part of a broader strategy in this area.
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But there remains a major challenge to overcome in Europe: charging infrastructure. These tests will help determine whether the theoretical advantages hold up under real-world conditions. For Scania, it’s not yet time to announce a future hydrogen-powered lineup; rather, the goal is to figure out if this technology deserves a place alongside fully electric vehicles in certain heavy transport applications.