GWM has brought its Hydrogen powered by FTXT truck prototype to Brazil for tests at its Iracemápolis (SP) plant, coinciding with the factory’s inauguration Aug. 15, 2025. The vehicle combines a 105 kWh battery with 40 kg of hydrogen in onboard tanks feeding a fuel cell, producing only water vapor. Tests will begin in September, assessing safety, performance, consumption, and adaptation to Brazilian roads, first unloaded and later with simulated cargo.
The project involves two universities, UNIFEI and USP in developing hydrogen supply from green electrolysis or ethanol reforming, leveraging Brazil’s biofuel network. Aligned with the MOVER Program, GWM aims to foster local expertise and infrastructure to reach carbon neutrality by 2045.
Source: Automotive Business Read The Article
PSR Analysis: The initiative positions Brazil at the forefront of low-emission heavy transport, addressing the long-haul segment’s limitations with battery-electric vehicles through faster refueling and longer range. Local testing ensures adaptation to diverse road and climate conditions while enabling technology transfer to Brazilian engineers. The dual strategy of sourcing hydrogen from renewables and ethanol reforming leverages existing biofuel infrastructure for quicker deployment. However, large-scale adoption hinges on developing a robust hydrogen production and refueling network, a far more complex challenge than EV charging. PSR
Fabio Ferraresi is Director, Business Development, South America, for Power Systems Research
