Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 hours ago
As Europe looks to decarbonise heavy-duty transport while protecting industrial competitiveness, geological (white) hydrogen is emerging as a potential game-changer: a domestic, low-cost energy source that could reshape supply chains and reduce dependence on imported fuels. How close is industry to accessing white hydrogen at scale, and can it realistically support freight and heavy industry in the near term—or will interim solutions be required? Why has hydrogen struggled to move beyond pilots in heavy-duty transport, and what has changed for manufacturers, fleet operators and infrastructure providers? With refuelling networks failing to scale, where have industrial models broken down? And which technologies—across production, engines or fuel cells—offer a credible commercial pathway for hydrogen in freight? Finally, is there still space for the combustion engine in a net-zero future?
Moderated by
Nicolas Daher, lead analyst, energy, Economist Intelligence Unit
Supported by Metier Ventures
Speakers
Emmanuel Masini, chief executive, Mantle8
James Budgett, chief executive, Metier Ventures
Andreas Kufferath,
vice president, powertrain solutions, commercial vehicles group, engineering environmental consulting and regulations development, Bosch
As Europe looks to decarbonise heavy-duty transport while protecting industrial competitiveness, geological (white) hydrogen is emerging as a potential game-changer: a domestic, low-cost energy source that could reshape supply chains and reduce dependence on imported fuels. How close is industry to accessing white hydrogen at scale, and can it realistically support freight and heavy industry in the near term—or will interim solutions be required? Why has hydrogen struggled to move beyond pilots in heavy-duty transport, and what has changed for manufacturers, fleet operators and infrastructure providers? With refuelling networks failing to scale, where have industrial models broken down? And which technologies—across production, engines or fuel cells—offer a credible commercial pathway for hydrogen in freight? Finally, is there still space for the combustion engine in a net-zero future?
Moderated by
Nicolas Daher, lead analyst, energy, Economist Intelligence Unit
Supported by Metier Ventures
Speakers
Emmanuel Masini, chief executive, Mantle8
James Budgett, chief executive, Metier Ventures
Andreas Kufferath,
vice president, powertrain solutions, commercial vehicles group, engineering environmental consulting and regulations development, Bosch
