Scania Deepens Clean Transport Research Through Real-World Hydrogen Truck Testing with Asko

Scania Deepens Clean Transport Research Through Real-World Hydrogen Truck Testing with Asko

(IN BRIEF) Scania is expanding its clean-transport research through a new phase of its Pilot Partner programme, collaborating with Asko Norge AS to test hydrogen fuel cell trucks under real-world conditions, even as battery-electric transport remains its primary long-term strategy. The trials, showcased at Transport.CH in Switzerland, use Scania’s electric powertrain combined with hydrogen systems to achieve driving ranges of up to 1,000 kilometres per refuelling, producing only water vapour. While the trucks are not yet commercially available, the initiative helps both companies analyse technical performance, operational suitability, and cost-effectiveness across everyday logistics operations. Scania emphasises that the programme allows it to evaluate how different powertrains and energy carriers complement battery-electric solutions, generating insights that directly support vehicle development, customer operations, and future decarbonisation pathways. Through the Pilot Partner initiative, established in 2021, Scania and its customers jointly test and refine practical solutions for fossil-free transport across multiple sectors.

(PRESS RELEASE) SÖDERTÄLJE, 13-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Scania is reinforcing its commitment to electrified transport while continuing to explore complementary clean technologies through real-world testing with select logistics partners. As part of its ongoing Pilot Partner programme, the company has expanded its research efforts to include hydrogen fuel cell trucks, working closely with Norwegian wholesaler Asko Norge AS to assess the potential role of hydrogen in commercial freight operations.

The collaboration was highlighted at Transport.CH in Bern, Switzerland, where Scania presented the latest phase of its joint testing initiative with Asko. Although the hydrogen-powered trucks are still pre-commercial and not yet available for customer orders, they represent a key component of Scania’s strategy to evaluate emerging technologies under authentic operating conditions. The aim is to gain a broader understanding of how different powertrains and energy carriers can contribute to fossil-free transport, even as battery-electric solutions remain the company’s core pathway for long-term decarbonisation.

Under the ongoing pilot, Scania has integrated its established electric platform with hydrogen fuel cell systems to achieve extended operating ranges of up to 1,000 kilometres per refuelling—while producing only water vapour as emissions. The trials allow both companies to examine technical performance, operational feasibility, and commercial considerations, generating insights that will help guide future development.

For Asko, which has a strong track record in environmental leadership, participation provides a rare opportunity to shape the next generation of low-emission heavy-duty transport technologies. “Being part of Scania’s Pilot Partner initiative gives us a unique opportunity to test and influence the development of sustainable solutions that fit our operations,” says Jørn Arvid Endresen, CEO of ASKO Midt.

Scania emphasises that this work does not alter its overall decarbonisation strategy, which prioritises battery-electric vehicles as its primary direction for sustainable transport. Nonetheless, examining hydrogen systems, range extenders, and other alternative solutions helps the company better understand real-world strengths and limitations—especially at a time when different industries and transport segments may require diverse technological routes.

Launched in 2021, the Scania Pilot Partner programme is designed as a collaborative innovation platform where selected customers test new technologies in their everyday operations. Insights generated in city distribution, regional haulage, and long-distance logistics help refine vehicle engineering, operational planning, service models, and total cost of ownership calculations. “This is where innovation meets application,” notes Tony Sandberg, Head of Scania Pilot Partner. “By working side by side with customers, we turn pilots into progress and strengthen Scania’s role in leading the shift toward a sustainable transport system.”

As the transport sector accelerates its transition toward lower-carbon solutions, Scania intends to continue its parallel focus on both battery-electric systems and promising complementary technologies. The company views practical, hands-on testing as essential for understanding how different solutions can best support customers’ operational and sustainability goals.

More information on Scania’s e-mobility strategy can be found at www.scania.com/emobility