Saudi Arabia Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Taxi Fleet in Jeddah
Key Ideas
- Saudi Arabia's TGA, in partnership with AHG, Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, and Toyota, launches a 7-day trial of hydrogen-powered taxis in Jeddah.
- The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's sustainability goals to increase zero-emission vehicles to 45% by 2030.
- The trial aims to evaluate the viability of hydrogen-powered vehicles in Saudi's public transport system, supporting carbon neutrality objectives.
- Toyota Mirai taxis will gather data on performance and environmental impact, contributing to future decisions on hydrogen technologies in public transport.
Saudi Arabia's Transport General Authority, in collaboration with industry partners, has initiated a seven-day trial in Jeddah using the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai as part of the taxi fleet. This trial, part of a memorandum of understanding, aims to assess hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel alternative in the public transport sector. The project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals, intending to increase the share of zero-emission vehicles on the roads to 45% by 2030. The deputy president of the TGA highlighted this pilot project as a significant milestone in the transportation sector, supporting sustainability goals and urban living standards. The Toyota Mirai, emitting only water vapor, will collect crucial data on performance, fuel efficiency, and environmental impact during the Jeddah trial. This data will play a role in future decisions regarding the integration of hydrogen technologies in Saudi Arabia's public transport, further supporting the kingdom's carbon neutrality ambitions. The exclusive distributor of Toyota vehicles in Saudi Arabia emphasized the commitment to green mobility and the project's contribution to transportation efficiency and environmental sustainability. Saudi Arabia's establishment of the first hydrogen refueling station in 2019, fueling an initial fleet of six Mirai vehicles, showcases the country's progressive steps towards adopting hydrogen technology.