Solaris Delivers 34 More Hydrogen Buses to Central Europe
The push for sustainable transportation has been active for many years now. Rapidly emerging as the best solution since electric, hydrogen-fuelled vehicles have been seen more and more throughout Europe.
Among the companies leading this revolution is Solaris, a European bus manufacturer that has distinguished itself by successfully integrating hydrogen fuel cell technology into its public transportation solutions.
Solaris has been at the forefront of deploying hydrogen-powered buses across Europe, with recent significant deliveries to cities in Germany and France, further cementing its reputation as an innovator in this rapidly growing market.
Solaris
‘Solaris Bus & Coach’ is one of the leading producers of city and intercity buses in Europe. It focuses specifically on the development of zero-emission vehicles, for example, electric and hydrogen buses as well as trolleybuses.
This has resulted in the widest zero-emission product range in the European market and a leading position in this segment with a market share of 15.2%.
Nearly 25,000 Solaris vehicles have been delivered so far and they roam the streets in 850 towns and cities across 33 countries located throughout Europe as well as beyond it.
Kerpen, Germany
Solaris will continue to provide hydrogen bus models to the German market, with their most recent customer being REVG Kerpen. The company has ordered a total of 26 Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen buses.
The manufacturer has already delivered the first two units to Kerpen, marking the debut of Solaris buses in the city. Deliveries of the remaining vehicles are scheduled for 2025.
Christian Goll, Managing Director of Solaris Deutschland commented: “We are honoured to bring our state-of-the-art hydrogen-powered buses to Kerpen, marking a significant moment in the evolution of the transport sector.
“REVG Kerpen’s choice underlines their commitment to pioneering sustainable transport solutions. Together, we are on a journey towards a greener future, driven by innovation and environmental responsibility,”
The ordered buses will be equipped with a 70 kW hydrogen fuel cells that generate electrical energy onboard and powered by central electric motors. In addition, the Urbino hydrogen buses will be equipped with Solaris High Power batteries to support fuel cell operation during peak demand.
The growing interest in hydrogen technology across Europe, particularly for zero-emission transport, is evident. The German market, in particular, is actively investing in hydrogen-powered buses.
Solaris Urbino hydrogen buses already operate in cities such as Cologne, Wuppertal, Hofolding, Weimar, Frankfurt, Gross-Zimmern, Aschaffenburg and the Munich metropolitan area.
Belfort, France
Solaris has won a prestigious order from the French market in recent days. The producer will deliver eight articulated hydrogen buses to the city of Belfort
The buses ordered by Belfort will be equipped with a state-of-the-art hydrogen system, slightely different to the ones delivered to Germany. They will include a 100 kW hydrogen fuel cell and a composite tanks that can store more than 50 kg of hydrogen at a pressure of 350 bar.
Solaris High Power batteries will again support the fuel cell at times of peak electricity demand. At the heart of the drive will be a 240 kW electric motor.
The bus will also feature a modular drive system, which, by dispersing its components, allows for better use of space on the vehicle’s roof. It also increases passenger space.
In accordance with the latest regulations, the buses will comply with GSR2 standards, including a system that alerts the driver to the presence of road users in the so-called ‘blind spot’.
The ordered Urbino hydrogen buses will feature high-efficiency air conditioning with a heat pump function. Additionally, the buses will be equipped with the eSConnect monitoring and remote fleet management system.
“We are extremely proud to collaborate with SMTC in Belfort and to supply the city with the high-tech, zero-emission hydrogen buses,” said Brice Bonavia, Managing Director of Solaris France.
“The Urbino 18 hydrogen are not only an innovative means of transport but also a step towards a sustainable future. Thanks to the new Solaris buses, the residents of Belfort will be able to enjoy cleaner air and modern, reliable public transport.”
To conclude, Solaris’s activities within Europe are extremely encouraging and make great steps towards the ultimate goal of making the transport industry zero-emission.
Byline: Sonny Riddell
