Up to 80% subsidy on a hydrogen truck: everything about the SWiM scheme on H2 Rijders

The application window for the Dutch Hydrogen in Mobility subsidy scheme (SWiM) is open until 13 May 2026 at 17:00. For transport operators, shippers and hydrogen filling station operators, this is one of the most compelling subsidy opportunities currently available: up to 80% reimbursement of the additional cost of a hydrogen truck, plus a contribution towards the construction of the associated filling station.

H2 Rijders has published a comprehensive information guide on SWiM at h2drivers.com/nl/swim. Here are the key points.

What is SWiM?

SWiM is a Dutch government subsidy scheme administered by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). It supports consortia of companies that jointly invest in hydrogen filling stations and hydrogen vehicles. The goal: a nationwide network of at least 30 hydrogen filling stations along European main roads by 2030. For 2026, a budget of €45 million is available.

How much subsidy is available?

For vehicles, SWiM covers up to 80% of the additional costs compared to a comparable diesel truck. Maximum amounts per vehicle:

• Heavy truck N3 (≥30,000 kg) fuel cell: €300,000

• Heavy truck N3 (≥30,000 kg) hydrogen combustion engine: €100,000

• Heavy truck N3 (<30,000 kg) fuel cell: €220,000

• Medium-heavy truck N2 fuel cell: €150,000

• Light commercial vehicle (N1): €60,000

• Heavy bus M3 fuel cell: €300,000

Per consortium, up to €8 million is available for vehicles, and up to €3 or €4 million for the construction or expansion of a filling station (depending on type).

Collaboration is mandatory — and that is exactly its strength

Solo applications are not permitted. A consortium must always include at least one filling station operator and one transport company or shipper. This prevents the classic chicken-and-egg problem: no trucks without a filling station, no filling station without trucks. By applying jointly, both are created simultaneously.

Shippers — companies that buy in transport rather than operating their own fleets — can also participate. As a shipper, you influence which vehicles your logistics partners use. Joining a consortium is a direct way to accelerate that transition.

New categories in 2026

Three new categories have been added compared to previous years: logistics machinery (such as forklifts, terminal tractors and handling equipment), mobile hydrogen storage and tube trailers. Advance payment rules have also been relaxed: after an initial advance of 50%, a second advance of 25% can now be requested.

No consortium yet? H2 Rijders can connect you

Interested but without a partner yet? At h2drivers.com/nl/swim you can submit your details via the contact form. H2 Rijders will connect you with consortia that match your region, company size and route profile.

Deadline: 13 May 2026

Putting together a strong application takes time. You will need a cooperation agreement, vehicle specifications, a letter of intent for renewable hydrogen supply and planning permission documentation. Starting now puts you in a strong position.

Want to know more? Visit h2drivers.com/nl/swim for the full FAQ, all subsidy amounts and the contact form.

Source: H2 Rijders – SWiM information page