Dongfeng claims 1,700km range from new fuel cell-truck tractor combo

Chinese vehicle manufacturer Dongfeng Motor Corporation has unveiled a new 400kW hydrogen fuel cell system alongside a new truck cab, which it claims could offer 1,700km of range.

When used in the 8.8-tonne T1 tractor unit, Dongfeng said the system offers a 30,000-hour lifecycle, cold start capability at -40°C, 1,700km range, and a 15-minute refuel time.

Based on metal bipolar plates, Dongfeng said the fuel cell has passed a 10,000-hour endurance test under new Chinese national standards. It adds to the manufacturer’s 70kW and 150kW fuel cell platforms.

The company said the T1 tractor provides a “solid foundation for the large-scale, commercial operation of hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles.” However, it’s unclear whether other powertrains could be used in the platform.

Together, Dongfeng claimed its vehicles consumed just 7kg of hydrogen per 100km following tests in “mountainous and flatland regions.”

The reveal builds on the increasing case for fuel cells in heavy-duty mobility as battery electric vehicles face limitations around range, payload and refuelling times.

Hydrogen, while criticised for the low energy efficiency that comes with converting electricity to hydrogen and then into kinetic energy, is seen as a route to support the heaviest applications.

China remains a key hydrogen fuel cell market for the mobility sector. According to the Hydrogen Council, the People’s Republic accounts for around 95% and 85% of the global hydrogen truck and bus markets, respectively.

In mid 2025, Toyota launched its with Chinese state-owned Shudao Group and its subsidiary, Sichuan Shudao Equipment Technology, setting up base with a 10,000m² facility in Sichuan.

This followed the Japanese manufacturer launching a Beijing fuel cell the year prior with fuel cell system manufacturer SinoHytec.