Liebherr, MAN, and Daimler Truck Test Hydrogen-Powered Construction Site Near Munich

Key Highlights

• Fully hydrogen-powered construction site tested.

• Real-world earthmoving and haulage operations.

• Diesel-like performance with lower emissions.

• Fast refuelling in 10–15 minutes.

• Long-haul and heavy-load capability proven.

Liebherr, MAN, and Daimler Truck have successfully carried out a live demonstration of a low-emission construction site near Munich. The trial was conducted at a gravel facility where only hydrogen-powered machines were used. This pilot project was carried out under the Hydrogen Engine Alliance to test hydrogen as a clean fuel option for construction and transport operations.

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Hydrogen Machines Used in Real-World Operations

The demonstration involved three hydrogen-powered vehicles working together in real construction conditions. These included the Liebherr L 566 H large wheel loader, a series-production MAN hTGX truck, and a hydrogen-based development vehicle built by Daimler Truck on the Mercedes-Benz Arocs platform. All machines were deployed for earthmoving and material transport tasks, similar to daily site operations.

Diesel-Like Performance with Lower Emissions

During the test, the hydrogen-powered equipment handled heavy and demanding workloads normally managed by diesel machines. According to the companies, performance and output remained comparable to diesel powertrains, while emissions were significantly lower, proving hydrogen as a practical low-emission alternative.

Liebherr confirmed that its hydrogen wheel loader can operate for a full work shift on a single hydrogen fill. Refuelling takes only 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring that work schedules remain uninterrupted and efficient.

Familiar Driving Experience and Heavy-Duty Capability

MAN and Daimler Truck highlighted that their hydrogen engines offer driving characteristics similar to diesel vehicles, making them easy to adopt for operators. Low noise levels were also noted as a key advantage, especially for construction sites and logistics operations in sensitive areas. The companies further stressed the engines’ ability to handle long-distance transport and heavy loads without compromise.

Path Ahead for Hydrogen Construction Sites

The partners concluded that low-emission construction sites are already achievable using current hydrogen engine technology. However, they pointed out that wider adoption will depend on the expansion of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure across Europe. Competitive hydrogen pricing will also play a crucial role in enabling large-scale use in the construction and logistics sectors.

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CMV360 Says

The successful hydrogen-powered construction site trial near Munich proves that clean alternatives to diesel are already viable. Liebherr, MAN, and Daimler Truck demonstrated that hydrogen engines can deliver the same performance, range, and reliability required for heavy construction and logistics work. With fast refuelling and familiar driving experience, hydrogen technology can support low-emission sites, provided refuelling infrastructure and fuel pricing improve across Europe.