Electrical Malfunction Caused Fire in Belfort Hydrogen Bus Incident
Key Ideas
- The fire that destroyed seven hydrogen-powered buses in Belfort was attributed to an electrical malfunction, not hydrogen-related issues.
- Initial investigations suggest the incident was not caused by hydrogen, with the out-of-service vehicle ruling out thermal activity.
- The safety systems of the hydrogen buses effectively evacuated hydrogen, and the fire was fueled by burning plastics, not hydrogen flames.
- Despite the incident, Belfort remains committed to its hydrogen strategy, aiming to power 50% of its bus fleet with hydrogen by 2025.
The Director of the Régie des transports du Territoire de Belfort clarified that the recent fire at the Optymo depot, which destroyed seven hydrogen-powered buses, was not related to hydrogen use. Initial findings point to an electrical origin for the blaze, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact malfunction. The safety systems of the hydrogen buses successfully evacuated hydrogen, triggering alerts and response from local residents and the fire brigade. The fire was fueled by materials other than hydrogen, which were quickly managed by safety devices. Despite the incident, the city of Belfort remains steadfast in its commitment to its hydrogen strategy, with plans to transition 50% of its bus fleet to hydrogen by 2025.