Ruhrbahn's Hydrogen Bus Initiative in Essen and Mülheim an der Ruhr
Key Ideas
- Ruhrbahn initiates trial operation of 19 hydrogen buses in Essen and Mülheim an der Ruhr.
- By 2033, 212 hydrogen buses are planned for public transport in Essen, with 46 in Mülheim.
- State subsidy of 4.8 million euros supports the purchase of new hydrogen buses.
- Transition to hydrogen buses aims at enhancing sustainability and reducing emissions in the region.
Ruhrbahn in Germany is set to introduce the first hydrogen buses in Essen and Mülheim an der Ruhr, starting a trial operation in March. The company has ordered a total of 19 hydrogen buses, with nine already delivered by Polish manufacturer Solaris. The remaining ten buses are expected by mid-2025. The hydrogen bus initiative is part of Ruhrbahn's plan to convert its bus fleet to hydrogen by 2033, with 212 hydrogen buses planned for Essen and 46 for Mülheim. The state of North Rhine-Westphalia is subsidizing the purchase of the new vehicles, including ten hydrogen articulated buses and nine hydrogen solo buses. The solo buses are estimated to cost around 720,000 euros each. The transition to hydrogen buses aligns with Ruhrbahn's goal of promoting sustainability and reducing emissions in the region. This move marks a significant step towards a greener public transport system and a more environmentally friendly future.