DLR, Catena, Einride, Daimler Truck, Volvo Trucks, Torc Robotics

The German Aerospace Center (DLR) has opened the BALIS test site in Empfingen, Germany, a unique global facility for testing hydrogen fuel cell drives in the megawatt range. BALIS enables the development of modular powertrains for heavy-duty applications, particularly in aviation and shipping. The modular site allows testing of both individual components and entire powertrains. The DLR is also developing its own megawatt-class electric drive system, including a fuel cell system, hydrogen tank, electric motor, control components, and power electronics. A major focus is the behavior and optimization of this megawatt drive system under different load scenarios. Another research focus is handling large quantities of liquid hydrogen (LH2) for powering the complete system. With an additional €3 million, the DLR is constructing a test tank and refueling infrastructure.

Swedish logistics real estate developer Catena and truck company Einride are partnering to establish charging hubs with six to eight charging points offering up to 400 kW in strategic locations like Norrköping and Helsingborg. These sites will be accessible to electric trucks of all brands and feature driver lounges with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and kitchens. Drivers can also monitor charging progress on screens within the lounge. Catena will finance and own the facilities, while Einride will manage operations.

A research team from the University of Kassel, together with Daimler Truck AG, is developing a system to adapt electric car drivetrains for commercial vehicle use. The project includes a newly designed two-speed transmission and an innovative operating strategy to enable light, cost-effective electric drives typically used in passenger vehicles to be deployed in commercial vehicles. The system aims for scalability, reduced development costs and risks, and to meet the high demands of commercial vehicle dynamics. The researchers developed a dynamic shifting strategy to enable seamless shifting with a multi-speed transmission and a predictive driving strategy to optimize energy use based on current driving behavior. The project was successfully tested on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Volvo Trucks is introducing an innovative emergency braking system worldwide, targeting pedestrian and cyclist detection. By 2025, this system will be standard on all FH, FM, and FMX trucks in the European Union. The system uses radar and camera sensors to detect hazards in front of the vehicle and alerts drivers to collision risks, applying brakes if needed to prevent or reduce collisions. It exceeds the EU’s new emergency braking standards set for 2028, bringing Volvo closer to its vision of a collision-free future. Volvo Trucks also expanded its Active Side Collision Avoidance Support System globally, integrating it into the FH, FM, and FMX models. This system, an upgrade to the previous turn assist, now includes active braking to avoid side collisions with cyclists when the truck turns right, using radar sensors to alert the driver and brake if necessary.

Daimler subsidiary Torc Robotics has reached a production milestone for autonomous trucks, successfully completing an acceptance test for its self-driving trucks. Torc Robotics develops technologies for fully autonomous long-haul truck operation, aiming to ease driver workload and enhance road safety through automated driving functions. On a multi-lane, closed test track, the truck operated without a human on board—a “Driver-Out” milestone in the industry. Until now, Daimler Truck and Torc have conducted autonomous driving tests with safety drivers and controllers. The truck achieved operating speeds of up to 105 km/h during the test, marking a significant step toward autonomous trucking.