Offenbach Tests Electric and Hydrogen Trucks to Replace Diesel Fleet
Offenbach’s waste management service has launched a study to test greener alternatives for its heavy garbage trucks. Currently, all 18 vehicles in daily operation run on diesel. The project will compare electric, hydrogen, and biofuel-powered trucks over several months.
The TOMSO study began in early February with two rented vehicles: one battery-electric and one hydrogen-powered. Both have been handling regular collection routes alongside the existing diesel fleet. Data is being gathered on energy use, range, waste load capacity, and overall performance compared to conventional trucks running on HVO100 biofuel.
The Technical University of Darmstadt is assisting with emissions analysis, while the project itself is 50% funded by Hesse’s Electromobility Promotion Program. A grant of €147,700 covers vehicle rental costs. The goal is to assess which propulsion system offers the best balance of cost, efficiency, and CO₂ reduction.
Stadtservice Offenbach is also examining the feasibility of retrofitting its heavy-duty fleet. However, the upfront purchase price of climate-friendly trucks remains higher than that of traditional diesel models.
The findings will help determine future deployment strategies for Offenbach’s waste collection fleet. Real-world testing and data analysis will guide decisions on which alternative fuels or propulsion systems could replace diesel in the long term. The study’s results may also influence wider adoption across similar municipal services.
