In a groundbreaking improvement for the automotive trade, Mercedes-Benz Particular Vans and Mörtlbauer Baumaschinen Vertriebs GmbH have efficiently unveiled two prototypes geared up with hydrogen combustion engines. These pioneering autos, which embody a Unimog and a crawler, are a part of the bold “WaVe” venture funded by Germany’s Federal Ministry for Financial Affairs and Local weather Motion. The venture goals to discover hydrogen-based drive methods as a sustainable various to standard diesel engines in high-power work machines.
From Diesel to Hydrogen: How These Mercedes-Benz Prototypes are Forging a New Path
After two years of rigorous improvement and testing, the hydrogen-powered Unimog and crawler have demonstrated their capabilities in real-world driving, working, and refueling operations. This milestone represents a major leap ahead within the quest for low-emission, high-efficiency heavy equipment.
What Makes These Prototypes Stand Out?
1. Minor Modifications, Main Impression:
One of many standout options of those hydrogen combustion engines is that they require solely minor modifications in comparison with as we speak’s diesel engines. This sensible strategy ensures that current infrastructure and experience might be leveraged, facilitating a smoother transition to greener expertise.
2. Comparable Efficiency:
The Unimog and crawler ship energy outputs practically an identical to their diesel counterparts. The Unimog, as an example, boasts 290 hp and 1000 Nm of torque, whereas the crawler gives comparable efficiency metrics with an engine output akin to 300 hp diesel variants. Each autos are fueled by gaseous hydrogen saved at 700 bar stress, with the Unimog holding round 13 kilograms and the crawler 14.5 kilograms.
3. Confirmed Effectivity and Low Emissions:
The hydrogen combustion engines have been totally examined and validated for his or her effectivity and low emission ranges. In accordance with Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, “Hydrogen combustion for work machines with high power requirements, both for driving and for powering auxiliary drives, is worthwhile, practical, and very low in emissions.”
Demonstration and Sensible Utility
The ultimate demonstration occasion held at Mörtlbauer’s premises in Fürstenzell showcased the reliability and flexibility of these prototypes. The specially converted Unimog U 430 implement carrier transported the crawler on a low loader, after which both vehicles performed live demonstrations, including refueling at a mobile hydrogen station and operating various implements like a front-mounted sweeper.
Armin Mörtlbauer, Managing Director of Mörtlbauer Baumaschinen Vertriebs GmbH, emphasised the importance of this achievement, stating, “The fact that our crawler and the Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks Unimog can be easily refueled with gaseous hydrogen and that these vehicles also work reliably when using implements is the result of outstanding cooperation in this research partnership.”
The Technical Spine
Under the hood, the Unimog and crawler are equipped with medium-duty engines customized for hydrogen propulsion. This includes specialized pistons, a hydrogen-compatible intake system, and an optimized ignition system. The combustion process produces water, expelled as hot steam via the exhaust system, highlighting the environmental benefits of this technology.
The WaVe Mission
Launched in July 2021, the “WaVe” project involved collaboration among eighteen partners and set out to develop hydrogen-based drive systems for work machines. The primary goal was to create innovative solutions that could replace conventional diesel engines while necessitating minimal modifications to existing drivetrain components. Following an extensive year dedicated to planning and preparation, development work on the prototypes began in mid-2022, leading to the successful presentation of these revolutionary vehicles. This initiative represents a pivotal stride towards redefining the future of sustainable transportation in heavy machinery.
Transferring Ahead
The success of the Unimog and crawler prototypes marks a pivotal moment in the transition toward sustainable heavy machinery. Both Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and Mörtlbauer are ready to continue down this path, provided there is enough support from government and society.
As Armin Mörtlbauer aptly put it, “If the government and society choose to follow the path toward hydrogen combustion engines, we are ready to go.”
This development not only underscores the potential of hydrogen technology in reducing emissions but also sets a precedent for future innovations in the automotive industry. The transition from diesel to hydrogen is not just a possibility; it is a tangible reality, thanks to projects like WaVe and the dedicated efforts of industry pioneers.
