Scania reveals its first hydrogen trucks in Swiss pilot launch
Scania has revealed its first hydrogen-powered trucks at Transport.CH 2025 in Bern, Switzerland. These fuel cell electric vehicles were developed through the Scania Pilot Partner programme. While not yet available to order, they will soon begin testing with selected customers.
The project gives Scania a real-world platform to explore hydrogen as a viable fuel for long-haul transport.
Built to test hydrogen, not to sell it (yet)
The trucks are part of a limited pilot programme. Scania will use the vehicles to test fuel cell performance, operating costs and infrastructure needs in real conditions.
Battery-electric trucks remain Scania’s main strategy. However, the company sees hydrogen as a useful option for routes that are harder to electrify. These new pilots will help explore that potential.
“This week, the first Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles by Scania Pilot Partner are displayed,” said Tony Sandberg, VP of the programme.
“These pilot FCEVs are not yet available for order. They will be used to evaluate technology, operational performance, and commercial viability.”
Hydrogen complements electrification
The trucks are built on Scania’s existing electric powertrain, but instead of plugging into the grid, they carry a hydrogen fuel cell system. This converts hydrogen into electricity on board, powering the electric motor. The only emission is water vapour.
The vehicle delivers a range of up to 1,000 kilometres, according to Scania, and is already being tested in real-world operations. The combination of long range, fast refuelling, and electric efficiency makes the technology especially attractive for long-haul transport.
Real trucks, real routes
Scania is deploying the trucks in regions with functioning hydrogen ecosystems, where partners already exist across supply, logistics and infrastructure. The goal is to gather data on vehicle performance and commercial viability under actual operating conditions.
“The pace of scaling up will depend on the capabilities of the ecosystem,” Sandberg explained. “Together we will gain practical experiences of running zero-emission transports on hydrogen.”
Why this matters
This is Scania’s first hydrogen truck on public display. It shows a clear step forward for fuel cell tech in heavy transport. While the trucks aren’t for sale yet, they are built and ready to operate.
Scania’s pilot marks progress from concept to road trial. And that’s how hydrogen becomes a real option for the sector.
