On November 14, the Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Chenglong H5V cargo truck, equipped with the Yuchai YCK05H hydrogen-powered engine, began its full-vehicle demonstration run. This milestone signifies that China’s hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) industry has officially transitioned from the stage of technical research and development to product demonstration and application. It represents another significant breakthrough in zero-carbon fuel for China’s automotive sector.
A total of eight vehicles and ICE models from GAC, Geely, FAW Jiefang, Sinotruk, and Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor & Yuchai participated in this demonstration run. The successful operation of the Chenglong H5V hydrogen-powered cargo truck, jointly developed by Yuchai and Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, not only showcases Yuchai’s technological innovation in the hydrogen energy field but also fills the domestic gap for hydrogen-powered cargo trucks. Moreover, it complies with the requirements of future China National VII emission regulations.
The YCK05H, independently developed by Yuchai, is the first hydrogen-powered engine for commercial vehicles in China. It integrates multiple advanced technologies, such as high-pressure multi-point injection, high-efficiency low-inertia turbocharging, and efficient lean combustion. These innovations successfully overcome technical challenges commonly associated with hydrogen engines, such as backfire and knocking, ensuring more stable power output. Compared to traditional fuel cell commercial vehicles, the YCK05H reduces manufacturing costs by 70%, operational costs by 50%, and extends service life by 400%. It achieves zero-carbon emissions and is suitable for applications in public transportation, sanitation, cold chain logistics, and urban delivery. The engine boasts significant advantages, including high adaptability, strong power, high reliability, low emissions, and low cost.
The demonstration route includes industrial park roads, urban roads, suburban roads, highways, and hydrogen refueling stations, covering a total distance of 35 km. The demonstration period is set for six months, offering critical insights for the verification of the hydrogen internal combustion engine technology pathway, regulatory approval, and feasibility policy studies.
Looking ahead, as hydrogen ICE technology and the industrial chain continue to mature, Yuchai will deepen its collaboration with leading enterprises and research institutions in the industry. The company remains committed to advancing hydrogen energy technology, accelerating the transition to zero-carbon energy, and laying a solid foundation to support the green and low-carbon transformation of China’s automotive industry and the realization of the nation’s “dual carbon” goals.
