Cummins’ hydrogen fuel-cell truck sets 1,800-mile Guinness World Record
Accelera, Cummins‘ zero-emissions offshoot, has rolled into the record books with the longest-ever journey by a hydrogen fuel cell electric heavy-duty truck without a single top-up.
Clocking in a staggering 1,806 miles, the Accelera “H2Rescue” truck – a rugged Kenworth T370 prototype built to support communities during natural disasters – showcases hydrogen’s endurance and potential for long-haul, zero-emissions transport.
Cummins truck sets Guinness World Record
Driving across central California, the H2Rescue truck powered through 1,800 miles of road, coasting through rush-hour traffic and contending with California’s shifting temperatures – all without emitting a gram of CO₂.
The journey was carefully monitored by a Guinness World Records adjudicator who ensured the hydrogen tank was sealed before departure.
Under the ‘hood’, is Accelera’s advanced fuel cell engine and a powerful 250kW traction motor to drive the wheels.
The truck relied on 175 kilograms of hydrogen stored onboard, consuming 168 kilograms during the journey.
To put it in perspective, a diesel truck over the same distance would have belched out 664 pounds (over 300 kg) of CO₂.
This journey proves hydrogen’s potential to deliver high performance without the pollution, especially in a world increasingly aware of transport emissions.
H2Rescue hydrogen truck
More than a record-breaker, the H2Rescue truck is a prototype built to tackle the demands of emergency response.
The ‘Class 7’ truck, weighing in at 33,000 pounds (around 15 tonnes), is built for emergency response, ready to support during natural disasters.
It has onboard hydrogen fuel-cell generators, meaning the H2Rescue can power 20 to 25 FEMA trailers, temporary shelters, or even homes for up to 72 hours on a single tank – delivering portable, pollution-free power precisely when needed.
Unlike traditional diesel generators, the hydrogen fuel-cells emit nothing more than water vapor, quietly supporting vital infrastructure without polluting the environment.
Partnership between the Army and industry
Backed by a collaborative team including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the project shows the power of partnership in driving hydrogen innovation.
As Nicholas Josefik, Industrial Engineer at the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, said:
“This world record is a triumph for interagency collaboration and proof that hydrogen is a viable alternative fuel for vehicles. By using hydrogen, we can improve our Nation’s energy security and reliability.”
Hydrogen power for trucking
Hydrogen fuel cells offer a practical solution for heavy-duty trucks with high range demands, rapid refueling needs, and the added benefit of zero emissions.
Accelera’s record-setting truck demonstrates what hydrogen can do today, not just as a concept but as a viable, scalable solution for the freight and emergency response sectors.
Eric Wasiloff, Project Manager with the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center said:
“We look forward to transitioning lessons learned throughout this project to future fuel cell systems and joint efforts.”
