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Brussels: Mouvement Réformateur (MR) asks STIB to Test Hydrogen Buses on its Network

By December 5, 2019 2   min read  (379 words)

December 5, 2019 |

STIB Brussels

At a time when the Region is now aiming for a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, it is imperative not to leave any trail aside to meet the energy challenge, especially with regard to public transport. 

The energy pact the Region has signed provides that for public authorities and public transport, all new purchases of cars and buses will be “zero emissions” by 2025.

“It is surprising that in the STIB Bus Plan presented in the mobility committee, we mention the acquisition by STIB of 288 new buses, including 37 electric buses and 251 hybrid/diesel buses. But no mention is made to buses running on CNG or hydrogen, not even the start of the study. “Denounces Anne-Charlotte d’Ursel, Deputy MR.

However, at present, several European cities are operating hydrogen buses. This is the case with our neighbors in France, Lille, Ile de France and Paris, Auxerre, Pau, or even Germany in Cologne, and Wuppertal. De Lijn even advertises on its website: “We are experimenting with fuels or alternative engines (electricity and hydrogen). It is also interesting to note that Japan or California invest heavily in this type of alternative fuel, preferring even electric vehicles, whether for private transport or public transport. “To govern is to foresee. “Recalls Anne-Charlotte d’Ursel. In July 2013 just before the entry into force of the Cobrace, under Brigitte Grouwels, an order for 175 diesel buses is contracted.

In July 2016, under Pascal Smet, the COBRACE (the Brussels Code of Air, Climate and Energy adopted in 2013) was modified by the majority to allow the purchase of 235 hybrid/diesel buses that derogate from the prohibition to buy diesel. “It is high time to test this fuel on vehicles that are constantly running in the city on trial at least on the bus line otherwise the goals will never be achieved.” Denounces Anne-Charlotte d’Ursel.

The advantages of hydrogen are multiple: 0 g / km of greenhouse gases and particles; range of up to 400 km; acoustic comfort; controlled safety comparable to CNG vehicles; the speed of refueling (5 min); high-level service buses (BRTs) exist; etc.

The MR Group in the Brussels Parliament, through Anne-Charlotte d’Ursel, is asking the Brussels government to test hydrogen buses on the STIB network.

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