Europe's First Fleet of Hydrogen-Powered Buses Launched in Germany
Key Ideas
  • Regionalverkehr Köln (RVK) introduces eight hydrogen-powered articulated buses in Cologne, with plans for a total of 108 by 2025.
  • Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing highlights the importance of alternative drive systems for quieter and more climate-friendly public transport.
  • 31 additional hydrogen buses funded by BMDV will be integrated into the RVK fleet, contributing to the transition to clean energy in the transportation sector.
  • Solaris Bus & Coach S.A. has been awarded a contract for hydrogen-powered fuel cell hybrid buses, further promoting sustainable mobility in the region.
Regionalverkehr Köln (RVK) has launched Europe's first fleet of hydrogen-powered buses in Cologne, with the introduction of eight articulated buses. This marks a significant step towards sustainable public transport in the region. The RVK plans to expand its fleet with ten more hydrogen buses this month and a total of 108 by 2025. The initiative has received support from the Federal Transport Ministry, with funding of 33.9 million euros for the procurement of H2 buses. These environmentally friendly buses aim to provide clean and quiet transportation through villages and cities, contributing to a more climate-friendly mobility landscape. Additionally, Solaris Bus & Coach S.A. has been contracted to supply 20 guaranteed and 20 optional hydrogen-powered fuel cell hybrid buses, further advancing the adoption of alternative drive systems in public transport. With the integration of 31 additional hydrogen buses funded by the BMDV, the RVK is making significant progress in transitioning to sustainable energy sources in the transportation sector. The hydrogen buses, equipped with a 100 kW fuel cell set, offer a range of 350 km and use 50 kg of hydrogen stored on the vehicle roof. This innovative technology is not only environmentally friendly but also proves to be suitable for topographically challenging terrains, as demonstrated in the Rheinisch-Bergisch district since 2020. The overall funding program aims to support the procurement of around 4,000 electric buses by 2025, further emphasizing the commitment to clean energy and sustainable mobility.
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