European bus manufacturers have announced their intent to develop and introduce to the market fuel cell electric buses for urban public transport.
In joint Letter of Understanding, representatives of five major European bus manufacturers outlined their commitment to producing more of the clean vehicles at a conference in Brussels (Belgium).
The letter was presented to Olaf Scholz, First Mayor of the City of Hamburg, and Kit Malthouse, Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Enterprise, during a symbolic ceremony at the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking’s (FCH JU) Stakeholders Forum.
The officials represent two major European cities with proven commitments to promoting and utilising low emissions public transport systems. Speaking at the ceremony Sholz said: ‘The City of Hamburg envisages purchasing only emission-free buses from 2020, thereby increasing the quality of life for all our citizens.’
Filip van Hool, CEO of Belgian bus manufacturer van Hool said: ‘In principle, fuel cell buses can be operated like conventional diesel buses without losses in productivity and flexibility.’ According to the FCH JU there are currently about 50 fuel cell buses in service, with a further 20 to be added next year in over a dozen European cities.
Original author: Alexia
