Wrightbus Unveils Next-Gen Hydrogen Double-Decker in Northern Ireland
Key Ideas
- Wrightbus, based in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, has unveiled the Streetdeck Hydroliner Gen 2.0, its most advanced hydrogen double-decker bus, showcasing the company's commitment to green public transport.
- The Gen 2.0 boasts enhanced features such as a sleek design, 300-mile range, quick refueling in eight minutes, and improved safety measures, making it a viable alternative to traditional diesel buses.
- The project, partly funded by the UK Government, involved key partners like Grayson Thermal Systems, Queen’s University Belfast, HYGEN, and Translink to boost UK-based manufacturing of cutting-edge hydrogen technology.
- With plans to create up to 1,000 jobs in its supply chain and grow its workforce to 2,500, Wrightbus is at the forefront of the zero-emission revolution, positioning itself as a global leader in hydrogen technology.
Wrightbus, headquartered in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, has introduced its most advanced zero-emission bus, the Streetdeck Hydroliner Gen 2.0. This hydrogen double-decker bus, a world first initially launched in 2020, promises increased efficiency, lower running costs, and a higher passenger capacity compared to its predecessor. The Gen 2.0 features a sleek design, a 300-mile range, and a quick eight-minute refueling time, positioning it as a direct replacement for traditional diesel buses.
The project, supported in part by the UK Government through the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), involved collaborations with various key partners to advance UK-based manufacturing of hydrogen technology. The bus incorporates cutting-edge hydrogen powertrain innovations, including a new fuel cell from Ballard and an efficient electric traction system, along with improved safety features and accessibility.
Wrightbus' CEO, Jean-Marc Gales, highlighted the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation, with 95% of buses produced in Ballymena now being zero emissions. The successful development of the Gen 2.0 Hydroliner showcases the expertise and innovation within Wrightbus and its UK supply chain partners.
The launch event, attended by stakeholders and government representatives, received praise for Wrightbus's leadership in hydrogen technology and its contribution to the green transport sector. North Antrim MP Jim Allister commended the company's growth and success in driving the hydrogen sector forward, emphasizing the unlimited potential of hydrogen technology.
With plans to create more jobs and expand production, Wrightbus is set to revolutionize the public transport sector, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in the zero-emission movement and showcasing the potential of hydrogen fuel-cell technology for commercial use.