Daimler Truck, Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), and Kawasaki Heavy Industries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Hydrogen Technology World Expo in Hamburg. Together, they want to establish a supply chain for green liquid hydrogen to Europe, with the Port of Hamburg serving as a central hub for supplying the European hinterland.
The cooperation is intended to enable the import of liquid hydrogen from hydrogen-producing countries to Germany and make the energy source more widely available. Since liquid hydrogen can be transported independently of pipelines, this could particularly benefit mobility, logistics, and aviation. In the coming months, the partners intend to examine the logistical requirements for transshipment, storage, and onward transport by road and rail. They also plan to involve other companies and institutions in a consortium along the entire hydrogen value chain.
Hydrogen for transportation and port logistics
Dr. Andreas Gorbach, member of the board at Daimler Truck, emphasized the importance of hydrogen imports for Europe. The Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck could “not only become a consumer of green liquid hydrogen but also enable its further transport by road.” In addition, hydrogen reduces “the scope and costs of expanding the power grid.”
Daimler Truck is pursuing a dual strategy with battery-electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Once testing has been completed, 100 semi-trucks are to be produced in small series in Wörth from the end of 2026.
HHLA CFO Annette Walter sees liquid hydrogen as “a key to a climate-neutral future.” HHLA is testing fuel cells in handling equipment and wants to supply industrial partners with hydrogen via its European logistics network.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries contributes technology and experience in the production, storage, transport, and reception of liquid hydrogen. The company is currently developing ships with up to 160,000 m³ of LH₂ capacity – in the future, also in sizes comparable to today's LNG carriers.
