DEKRA manages first hydrogen truck rental fleet in Germany

DEKRA is managing the first commercially operated rental fleet of hydrogen commercial vehicles in Germany: The expert organization has formed a partnership with the start-up hylane. The subsidiary of the insurer DEVK specializes in providing comprehensive hydrogen solutions in the logistics sector. The fleet initially includes 44 trucks from various manufacturers and will be rented to customers with different usage profiles across Germany.

„We are pleased that DEKRA can contribute its technical expertise to this exciting project while also gaining further experience with different approaches to fuel cell technology,” said Guido Kutschera, CEO of DEKRA Automobil GmbH and head of DEKRA Region Germany. “Our colleagues will accompany the vehicles on-site in the rental customers’ operational regions with the necessary expert services throughout the entire lifecycle, from delivery to decommissioning at some point in the future.”

In addition to the delivery inspection, DEKRA experts will conduct the main inspection and safety check, and, if necessary, create condition reports and expert opinions. “With DEKRA, we have found a partner that ideally supports us in implementing climate-friendly mobility,” said hylane Managing Director Sara Schiffer. As part of the partnership, hylane has also become a member of DEKRA e.V.

The hydrogen rental fleet from hylane is supported by the federal government. The difference in acquisition costs compared to diesel trucks is covered by 80 percent. The funds from the subsidy are used 1:1 to reduce the rental rates for the offered vehicles, allowing hylane to offer correspondingly attractive rental prices. The first vehicles will be handed over to hylane customers later this year.

Photo: © DEKRA