Air Products, a leading industrial gas company, has announced plans to establish a network of permanent, commercial-scale hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) along major transportation routes near the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). This strategic infrastructure will connect key locations across Europe and advance the development of a robust and resilient hydrogen ecosystem.
The new HRSs from Air Products will feature advanced fueling technology, multiple pressure options, and on-site liquid hydrogen storage, which enables liquid fueling. These stations will enhance the reliability and convenience of hydrogen refueling for heavy-duty transportation.
Hydrogen for these stations will be supplied through Air Products’ global supply chain, including a new hydrogen liquefaction plant in Rotterdam, which will double Europe’s liquid hydrogen capacity once operational.
In partnership with Daimler Truck, Air Products’ latest mobile refueling station in Duisburg is being utilised for a hydrogen truck pilot project. As part of customer trials, the station will support the refueling of five Mercedes-Benz GenH2 trucks, providing essential data for the development of a future-ready hydrogen ecosystem.
Air Products is also trialing one of the GenH2 trucks within its own fleet, aligning with its commitment to transitioning to hydrogen-powered vehicles. This truck will transport cylinder gases, offering practical insights into industrial gas transportation using hydrogen.
The Mercedes-Benz GenH2 trucks, fueled with liquid hydrogen, offer a range of over 1,000 kilometers. Liquid hydrogen provides higher energy density than compressed gaseous hydrogen, allowing for greater range and performance comparable to conventional diesel trucks. It also offers cost and weight advantages, making it suitable for demanding long-haul transportation.
Seifi Ghasemi, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Products said “With thousands of trucks delivering industrial gases to our customers every day, logistics is an integral part of our business. Trialling a Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck under real conditions is a critical step in our work to convert our distribution fleet to hydrogen-powered vehicles. ”
Martin Daum, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG said, “It is important to note that high-performance CO2-neutral vehicles alone will not be enough to make sustainable transportation successful. This also requires a corresponding charging and refuelling infrastructure, as well as cost parity with conventional vehicles. Although policymakers and energy companies are already active here, we urgently need even more momentum, across the entire Europe!”