zepp.solutions , a leading Dutch fuel cell system manufacturer and integrator, has unveiled more specifications and the name for their new hydrogen fuel cell powered truck: ‘Europa’. The zero-emission vehicle is designed as an answer to the most deployed mode of heavy-duty road transportation, the diesel 4x2 tractor unit.

Europa boasts several features that make it a game-changer in the transportation industry. With a long range, sleeper cab, quick refuelling and the ability to pull an ISO trailer (13.6 m / 45 ft container), it offers the same ease of operation and payload capacity as a diesel equivalent. The vehicle is based on a proven chassis from a renowned truck manufacturer. The first vehicles will enter operation in Q4 2023 as 4x2 tractor units with 350 bar hydrogen storage systems. With more than 50 kg of usable hydrogen on board, the vehicles will have a range of more than 700 km. In late 2024, the truck will also become available in a 700-bar hydrogen storage version (>80 kg usable H2), pushing the range to well over 1000 km on a single filling. The usable electrical energy content of the hydrogen after conversion is more than 900 kWh and 1450 kWh for the 350 and 700 bar versions respectively.

Infrastructure for 700 bar refuelling of heavy-duty vehicles still needs to be improved in Europe, making the 350 bar version the vehicle of choice for the first customers and interested parties.

Hydrogen-electric powertrain

The hydrogen-electric powertrain can also be fitted to other vehicle configurations such as box trucks, other axle configurations and cabs. The heart of the powertrain is a single zepp X150 fuel cell module, with the option to integrate further stacks and/or modules for increased efficiency and range.

The X150 fuel cell module and zepp’s hydrogen storage systems are also available as standalone units for integration into other vehicles or applications.

Designed for the European market

The Europa truck design is optimized for the European transport sector with strict EU regulations guiding its development. In most EU countries, the maximum gross combined vehicle weight is 40 metric tons. EU legislation increases this weight limit to 42 metric tons for zero-emission N3 articulated vehicles. Because the Europa tractor weighs less than 2 tons more than its diesel counterpart, it will offer a similar payload capacity.

"The Europa truck is another shining example of our commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions to the market. We're excited to offer a zero-emission, long-range truck that can compete with its diesel counterparts in terms of payload, performance and usability" said Kevin Schreiber, co-founder of the Dutch company. “And this is just the beginning. The integrated hydrogen fuel cell system X150 and our hydrogen storage systems are also available for integration by other manufacturers. We’re looking forward to their applications of our systems."

Financial incentives for zero-emission transportation

European customers are encouraged to switch to zero-emission transportation through various financial incentives and subsidies. One such programme is the Dutch AanZET subsidy, which could cover up to 37% of the purchase price of new zero-emission trucks. The AanZET subsidy programme works on a first come first serve basis and opens on April 4th.

Taking stock of interest

Interested parties can register their interest on zepp’s website starting today, without obligations. By registering, customers will be able to secure a priority spot in the production queue. More specifications and the final design will be unveiled along with the delivery of the first two trucks to launching customers BCTN Group and VOS Transport Group in Q4 of this year.

Specifications

Specification	350 bar edition	700 bar edition
Usable H2 storage capacity	> 50 kg	> 80 kg
Range	> 700 km	> 1000 km
Usable electrical energy content	> 900 kWh	> 1450 kWh
Axle configuration	4x2	4x2
Trailer compatibility	13.6 m / 45 ft container	13.6 m / 45 ft container
Payload capacity	Same as diesel equivalent	Same as diesel equivalent
Availability	Q4 2023	2024

About zepp.solutions

Zepp.solutions is a leading Dutch fuel cell system manufacturer and integrator that is committed to providing vehicle manufacturers, shipyards and OEMs with fuel cell system technology. They offer incredibly compact, highly integrated systems for medium and heavy-duty markets. The company’s PEM fuel cell system solutions contain all components, subsystems and control software necessary to turn hydrogen gas into electric power at maximum efficiency and operational robustness. By partnering with zepp.solutions, clients get access to cutting-edge fuel cell technology that helps them reduce their carbon footprint and stay ahead in their sector.

zepp.solutions Unveils Specifications of New Hydrogen-Powered Truck: ‘Europa’ to Launch in Q4 2023