German ADR haulier Grimmer Spezitrans, part of the Talke Group, has signed up for two of the first KEYOU 40-tonne trucks to hit the road, which will be powered by hydrogen combustion engines. Spezitrans will integrate them into its fleet in 2026 and use them in northern Germany.

KEYOU specialises in the development and implementation of hydrogen combustion engines for heavy-duty trucks. Its 40-tonne truck, based on the Daimler Actros, was unveiled at last year’s IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany, followed by the official sales launch at the end of 2024.

Announcing the deal, KEYOU said it won Spezitrans over with the truck’s many diesel-like features, its H2 Mobility as a Service model and the fact it is approved for ADR transport.

The technology also offers the same payload, range and refueling times as a diesel equivalent and comes with KEYOU’s all-inclusive mobility solution.

Daniel Gutmann, Spezitrans MD, said: “The decision to invest in hydrogen trucks is more than just a technological leap for us - it is a clear commitment to sustainable transportation and future-proof entrepreneurship.”

He added: “Together with KEYOU, we are sending a strong signal: We don’t just want to ride along when things move - we want to lead the way.” 

Pedro Bravo, KEYOU chief sales officer, commented: “We are delighted to have convinced such an innovative and forward-looking company as Spezitrans and the Talke Group of KEYOU and our technology, and to welcome them as one of the first customers for our new 40-ton truck.

“It takes companies with exactly this moving forward mentality and pioneering spirit to drive and actively shape the mobility revolution in heavy-duty transportation.”

Christoph Grunert, Talke Group MD, said this latest initiative in Grimmen is a further step in the group’s strategic sustainability agenda.

 “With our investments, we are actively shaping change - courageously, with foresight and responsibility. For us, sustainability does not end with good intentions.

“We systematically invest in research, pilot projects and build partnerships to actively shape the future of transportation.

“For us, alternative drive systems are not a side issue, but an integral part of our responsibility.”

Carol Millett is an award-winning freelance journalist with over 30 years’ of experience writing across a broad range of sectors, including road transport, construction and civil engineering, project management, private finance, technology, HR, and travel and tourism.View full Profile

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