Belfort Embraces Sustainable Transport with Solaris Hydrogen Buses
Key Ideas
- The city of Belfort in France has ordered eight articulated H2 buses from Solaris, set to be delivered in the second half of 2025.
- The buses, equipped with a 100 kW hydrogen fuel cell from Ballard and composite tanks storing over 50 kg of hydrogen, aim to provide sustainable and modern public transport.
- Solaris, a popular manufacturer in the hydrogen bus segment, has previously secured orders in France and is contributing to cleaner air and a sustainable future in Belfort.
- The introduction of the Urbino 18 hydrogen buses is a step towards reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions in the region.
The city of Belfort, located in eastern France, is making strides in sustainable public transport by ordering eight articulated H2 buses from Polish manufacturer Solaris. These buses, known as the Urbino 18 hydrogen, are set to be delivered in the second half of 2025. The purchase was made by the SMTC, a regional transport operators' organization, and the buses will be operated by the Régie des Transports du Territoire de Belfort (RTTB). With a 100 kW hydrogen fuel cell sourced from Ballard and composite tanks capable of storing more than 50 kg of hydrogen at a pressure of 350 bar, the Urbino 18 hydrogen buses are designed for efficiency and sustainability. Solaris, the manufacturer, highlights that this order marks their third venture into hydrogen-powered buses in France, showcasing a commitment to eco-friendly transport solutions. Brice Bonavia, Managing Director of Solaris France, expressed pride in delivering these high-tech, zero-emission buses to Belfort, emphasizing the benefits for residents such as cleaner air and reliable public transport. The manufacturer's growing popularity in the hydrogen bus sector is evident from their significant order backlog and market share. With over 220 Urbino hydrogen models already in operation across Europe, Solaris continues to drive the transition towards greener and more sustainable transportation options.