Daimler Truck tests fuel-cell trucks, EU plans industry relief measures and more

Daimler Truck has put the next generation of its fuel-cell trucks through rigorous testing. The demanding conditions of the Swiss Alps provided an ideal testing ground to evaluate the vehicles' performance, efficiency, and reliability under extreme terrain and climate conditions. This test phase marks an important milestone toward launching hydrogen fuel-cell technology for heavy-duty transport. With these activities, Daimler Truck reinforces its commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and to diversification of its powertrain offerings. The company regards fuel cells as a promising complement to battery-electric mobility, especially for long-distance routes and heavy payloads.

The European Commission has introduced a comprehensive action plan aimed at significantly easing regulatory burdens on the automotive industry by simplifying existing rules. The initiative aims to reduce administrative requirements for manufacturers and boost global competitiveness. Specific measures include postponing sustainability-related reporting obligations and raising certain regulatory thresholds. These proposed changes are expected to particularly benefit small and medium-sized businesses, allowing them to focus more resources on their core competencies in research, development, and manufacturing. The EU Commission anticipates this to stimulate innovation in the European automotive industry amid technological shifts.

Italian bus manufacturer Rampini has launched H2EUPower, a new business unit specializing in developing and supplying hydrogen fuel-cell systems. The new division provides solutions ranging from 30 to 140 kilowatts, suitable for midibuses as well as medium and heavy-duty vehicles. Operating independently from its parent company for technical and commercial matters, H2EUPower aims to offer customized, modular solutions for various applications. With this initiative, Rampini positions itself as a leader in European hydrogen technology, expanding its portfolio with innovative solutions for zero-emission mobility.

Volvo Trucks has expanded its charging service with a new feature allowing customers to reserve charging slots for their electric trucks in advance. This feature aims to significantly enhance fleet planning and efficiency by minimizing wait times at charging stations and ensuring optimal use of existing charging infrastructure. Charging reservations can be conveniently made through a dedicated app or online portal. This innovation demonstrates Volvo's commitment to customer-focused solutions in electromobility.

Mercedes-Benz Vans has handed over its 1,500th Sprinter van to the Tafel Deutschland e.V., marking a longstanding partnership that supports food banks in rescuing surplus food and distributing it to those in need. Delivering the vehicle to the Schwäbische Tafel in Stuttgart, Germany highlights Mercedes-Benz's social commitment and underscores the importance of reliable transport solutions for charitable organizations. The nearly 1,000 food banks in Germany save around 500 kilograms of food every single minute, helping up to two million people annually. Providing transportation vehicles like the Sprinter enables Tafel organizations to efficiently manage logistical challenges and continue their vital contributions to society.

Hyundai Translead unveiled a range of new products and technologies at the 2025 Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting, designed to improve efficiency and connectivity in the transportation industry. Highlights include the Anza Medium-Duty Truck Body, a versatile truck body delivered as a kit for easy onsite assembly; the Latitude Flatbed Trailer, redesigned to be lighter yet more robust and user-friendly, featuring enhancements like a rear ladder and integrated toolbox; HT HANA, an advanced insulation system for refrigerated trailers offering 35% better thermal efficiency; and HT TEMPS, a monitoring and predictive system for thermal events that alerts drivers early enough to take preventive action.