Hydrogen in motion: Innovation on the road
The future of heavy-duty transport takes shape where science and industry join forces. Purem by Eberspächer and RWTH Aachen University worked hand in hand toward a common goal: zero-emission mobility for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. To solve one of the key challenges in real-world applications, the exhaust and acoustics specialist developed the De‑Hydrator.
11 May 2026 – The industry is on the verge of a transformation. Fuel cells and electric powertrains offer sustainable alternatives for long-haul and distribution transport. But the path to everyday practicality is complex—and requires collaboration across company boundaries.
DEVELOPMENT FOR PRACTICAL APPLICATION
The collaboration focused on developing a modular powertrain for heavy-duty trucks. When increased water vapor emissions were detected during test drives of the demo truck, the expertise of Purem by Eberspächer came into play. Based on the requirements, the exhaust and acoustics specialist developed the De-Hydrator, a component that cools the fuel cell’s exhaust air via a heat exchanger. This process condenses the water steam in the exhaust air and systematically removes it as liquid water. The result: obstructed visibility in road traffic is avoided, and the practical suitability of fuel cell trucks increases. Two prototypes are already in use – one in the RWTH research project’s demo truck, and another at a well-known commercial vehicle manufacturer.
© PEM RWTH Aachen | Clemens Niederée
From the very beginning, the collaboration was solution-oriented and focused on the shared goal of creating a market-ready innovation. “Close coordination with RWTH Aachen University made it possible to quickly identify technical challenges and solve them together,” emphasizes Patrick Schaller, who drives hydrogen solutions forward in product management. “Such collaborations are key to sustainable mobility.”
MILESTONE: TEST DRIVE AT THE ESSLINGEN SITE
The vehicle’s stop at the Esslingen site was an important milestone: The test drive confirmed the positive simulations and bench test results. The demo truck is ready for road use – a visible sign of the successful collaboration. With the De-Hydrator, Purem by Eberspächer is expanding its portfolio of smart solutions for the hydrogen sector and underscoring its strategic focus on zero-emission drive solutions. The collaboration with RWTH Aachen University exemplifies the bridge between research and industrial application.
“Close coordination with RWTH Aachen University made it possible to quickly identify technical challenges and solve them together. Such collaborations are key to sustainable mobility.”
Patrick Schaller, Product Director Hydrogen Applications & Components
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE: JOINT FURTHER DEVELOPMENT
The experience gained is being directly incorporated into the further development of the technology. Further performance tests and component optimization are planned. In the long term, Purem by Eberspächer aims to bring zero-emission commercial vehicles to the road and actively shape the mobility and energy transition. Collaborations with research institutes and industry partners are a central component of this strategy. Together, we are working to create innovative solutions for a sustainable future.