Energy

Toyota Moves to Join Cellcentric as an Equal Shareholder

Jun 13, 2026 • By TerraBite Editorial

The hydrogen fuel cell joint venture cellcentric is set to become a three-way partnership. Daimler Truck, the Volvo Group, and Toyota Motor Corporation have signed a non-binding agreement to cooperate in the fuel cell system joint venture cellcentric, with the three companies intending to collaborate based on an equal shareholding with Toyota as the third joint venture partner. The agreement was signed on March 31, 2026.

Toyota plans to invest through a capital increase in cellcentric, matching Daimler Truck and Volvo Group's ownership stakes. Toyota and cellcentric also intend to co-manage development and production of fuel cell unit cells — the core component of fuel cell systems — drawing on technology from both companies. The deal combines Daimler Truck and Volvo's deep commercial vehicle integration experience with Toyota's more than 30 years of fuel cell development and manufacturing expertise — a combination that the three partners describe as complementary rather than overlapping.

Cellcentric will continue to operate as an independent entity, serving customers beyond its three shareholders across heavy-duty on- and off-road transport and stationary applications. Andreas Gorbach, Daimler Truck Board Member responsible for Truck Technology and former cellcentric CEO, described joining forces with the world's largest automotive manufacturer and fuel cell pioneer as "a game changer in making hydrogen in transportation a reality and cellcentric the go-to place for fuel-cell technology in commercial vehicles worldwide." The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and the completion of definitive agreements.

← Back to News Feed

Intelligence Section

🔍 Why This Deal Matters

This is not just another corporate merger. For the first time, three global giants — Daimler Truck, the Volvo Group, and Toyota — are joining forces equally to push hydrogen fuel cells into the mainstream of heavy transport.

Complementary expertise – Daimler and Volvo bring decades of commercial vehicle engineering. Toyota brings over 30 years of fuel cell experience (from the Mirai). Together, they cover the entire value chain.
Open to all truck makers – cellcentric will remain an independent supplier. Any manufacturer, not just the shareholders, can buy its fuel cell systems.
Accelerating the hydrogen economy – Long‑haul trucks are the hardest segment to electrify (batteries are too heavy; charging takes too long). Fuel cells offer diesel‑like refuelling and range, with zero tailpipe emissions.

In short, this deal removes roadblocks. Scale, funding, and shared technology will drive down costs – making hydrogen trucks a real competitor to diesel sooner than many expected.

🚛 What This Means for Heavy‑Duty Transport

Hydrogen fuel cells are uniquely suited for heavy, long‑haul trucks – the kind that move goods across continents. Unlike battery electric trucks, they refuel in minutes and can travel over 1,000 km without stopping. This partnership accelerates their arrival.

Cleaner freight, quieter roads – Zero tailpipe emissions (only water vapour). Less noise than diesel trucks. Better air quality along highways and in cities.
Lower costs over time – Three giants pooling resources means mass production. Economies of scale will drive down the price of fuel cell systems – and eventually the trucks themselves.
Hydrogen infrastructure follows – When major manufacturers commit to hydrogen, fuel stations get built. This partnership sends a strong signal to energy companies and governments.
Diesel alternatives are real – For everyday drivers, this means less pollution from lorries and potentially lower logistics costs (which affect the price of goods).

In short, this deal moves hydrogen‑powered trucks from pilot projects to the mainstream – and that benefits everyone who breathes air or buys anything delivered by lorry.

Toyota Moves to Join Cellcentric as an Equal Shareholder

TerraBite

TerraBite

ResetPassword

NewPassword

Confirm Log Out

Toyota Moves to Join Cellcentric as an Equal Shareholder

TerraBite

TerraBite

ResetPassword

NewPassword