ENC Introduces Next Generation of Fuel Cell Buses

ENC–ElDorado National-California (ENC) has unveiled at an open house its zero-emission Axess FC, a fuel cell electric bus and the first 12-year, 5,000-mile Altoona tested fuel cell bus.

More than 70 guests attended, including transit agencies and representatives from California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Air Quality Management District (AQMD).

ENC says the Axess FC, a hydrogen fuel cell bus, also known as “battery dominant fuel cell bus,” offers an innovative alternative fuel solution relying on compressed hydrogen for power. Electric fuel cells produce electricity and that energy is stored in hydrogen tanks. The resulting energy storage is twice that of a battery-electric bus. ENC notes that it has increased range, extending beyond 300 miles, and a faster fueling time which means no major disruption to the bus facility. Each zero-emission bus, over a 12-year period, can eliminate 1,690 tons of carbon dioxide, 10 tons of nitrogen oxide and 350 pounds of diesel particulate matter.

“We’re working hard to design and innovate to provide the safest environment for our passengers,” said Mike Ammann, vice president of sales, ENC. “With the most robust 304-grade stainless-steel structure on the market, composite exterior bodywork, true electric power, zero tailpipe emission, 10-15-minute fuel fill, and versatile route deployment, our Axess-FC is a breakthrough in sustainable transportation.”

ENC is already partnering with SunLine Transit Agency in Palm Desert, Calif.; Stark Area Regional Transit Authority in Stark County, Ohio; OCTA and University of California in Irvine, Calif.; as well as a Federal Transit Administration Demonstration Project in Flint, Mich., and Boston, Mass., Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority at Harvard University.