Mercedes-Benz Buses · Electric + Fuel Cell
eCitaro fuel cell
Battery-electric city bus with H₂ range extender – up to 600 km range without intermediate charging.
Visit Mercedes-Benz Buses eCitaro fuel cell
Bildnachweise: © Copyright Daimler Truck AG, Mannheim (Deutschland)
The eCitaro fuel cell combines battery-electric drivetrain with a second-generation Toyota fuel cell as a range extender. The result: up to 600 km range in the solo bus without intermediate charging – and high passenger capacity, because the battery can be sized smaller than in the pure eCitaro. Five hydrogen tanks with 25 kg H₂ feed the 60-kW fuel cell, while the NMC3 battery with 333 kWh provides energy for peak loads. The waste heat from the fuel cell heats the interior in winter and increases efficiency. Awarded as the winner of the electric bus comparison test 2026.
Specifications
| Drivetrain | Battery-electric with H₂ fuel cell range extender |
|---|---|
| Fuel cell | Toyota 2nd generation, 60 kW |
| Hydrogen Tank Solo | 25 kg H₂ in 5 tanks |
| Hydrogen Tank Joint | 30–35 kg H₂ in 6–7 tanks |
| Battery Solo | 333 kWh NMC3 |
| Battery Joint | up to 392 kWh NMC3 |
| Range Solo | ca. 600 km |
| Range Articulated | ca. 500 km |
| Length Solo | 12.14 m |
| Articulated Length | 18,13 m |
| Passenger Capacity Solo | up to 88 persons |
| Articulated passenger capacity | up to 128 persons |
| Awards | Winner Electric Bus Comparison Test 2026 |
| Production | Mercedes-Benz Werk Mannheim |
Highlights
- Up to 600 km range without intermediate charging – full-day operation possible
- Smaller battery than the pure eCitaro – more room for passengers
- Fuel cell waste heat warms the interior in winter
- Toyota fuel cell 2nd generation with highest durability
- Identical platform and service processes as Citaro and eCitaro
- Test Winner Electric Bus Comparison Test 2026