The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport has recently launched a funding program totaling €220 million, aimed at promoting the application of hydrogen trucks and the construction of a hydrogen refueling station network. The program will support the establishment of up to 40 hydrogen refueling stations and help put approximately 400 hydrogen trucks into operation.

In accordance with the EU's Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation, hydrogen refueling stations must be established every 200 kilometers along urban nodes and the core transport network by 2030. Germany's current funding program aligns with this target. The construction of refueling stations must comply with regulatory standards and be capable of supplying fuel for heavy-duty, medium, and light-duty vehicles. Projects can receive up to 50% subsidy support.

In addition to refueling stations, the program will also provide purchase subsidies for hydrogen trucks, covering 80% of the cost difference compared to traditional diesel vehicles. Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder stated: "We are gradually building a reliable basic network, which is an important component in the transition of heavy transport to climate-friendly drives." Project proposals must be submitted via the ministry's online portal by May 31st.

Germany has previously set mandatory targets for the use of green hydrogen in the transport sector, requiring hydrogen to meet 1.2% of the transport energy demand by 2030. Multiple European countries are increasing investment in heavy-duty hydrogen transport. German company Daimler Truck recently launched a new liquid hydrogen fuel truck, and Teal Mobility is also continuously expanding its hydrogen refueling station network in the Benelux region of Europe.