Mahle Powertrain and Metier Technologies are set to unveil a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered commercial vehicle at the upcoming CENEX Expo in September. This innovative vehicle showcases the successful conversion of existing diesel trucks to run on 100% hydrogen fuel, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the two companies.
The converted vehicle, based on a DAF LF220 platform and equipped with a 6.7-liter, 6-cylinder engine, demonstrates the potential for rapid adoption of hydrogen technology in the transportation sector. By leveraging Mahle Powertrain’s Flexible ECU (MFE) engine control software platform, the conversion process becomes seamless and efficient. This control system ensures precise mapping and calibration for hydrogen combustion, while also optimizing performance and safety.
James Budgett, Managing Director of Metier Technologies, highlighted the significance of this project in addressing urgent environmental concerns. He emphasized that the partnership with Mahle Powertrain enables fleet operators to transition to zero-emission transport without the need for entirely new vehicle platforms, offering a practical and commercially viable solution.
The hydrogen internal combustion engine solution developed by Metier promises a superior total cost of ownership compared to battery electric and fuel cell alternatives. It also provides enhanced capabilities for longer duty cycles, heavier payloads, and zero-emission operation, making it an attractive option for fleet operators looking to access city centers.
Metier’s regional approach in the UK targets established hydrogen ecosystems in Scotland and the Southwest, aligning with government commitments for hydrogen production through 2030. The transformation process involves the integration of specialized hydrogen injectors, comprehensive engine mapping using Mahle Powertrain’s MFE platform, and the implementation of new safety systems.
The unveiling of this hydrogen-powered commercial vehicle at CENEX Expo will be accompanied by presentations on hydrogen ICE design by Mike Bassett, Engineering Director at Mahle Powertrain. The event will serve as a platform to showcase the performance and capabilities of the converted vehicle, setting the stage for proof-of-concept work with targeted fleets by mid-2026 and volume deployment by early 2027.
Overall, the collaboration between Mahle Powertrain and Metier Technologies represents a significant step towards accelerating the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles in the commercial transportation sector. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of hydrogen conversion technology, this initiative paves the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future in the automotive industry.
