The innovative partnership between Solaris Bus & Coach and Regionalverkehr Köln GmbH (RVK) is setting new standards for environmentally friendly public transportation by incorporating hydrogen fuel cell hybrid buses into the Cologne/Bonn area fleet.
RVK’s quest for a more sustainable transport solution has culminated in a landmark contract with Solaris, thanks to the Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and Transport (BMDV) support. This contract entails the provision of 18 hydrogen-powered articulated buses, which will be delivered in the latter half of 2024, significantly reshaping public transportation within the region.
This initiative reflects a profound shift towards clean energy solutions, as evidenced by the BMDV’s funding for 108 hydrogen-powered buses in April of the previous year. Further plans include funding for 29 more hydrogen-powered articulated buses, highlighting the government’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge hydrogen technology.
Related: Upper Bavaria Carriers Take Delivery of 10 Hydrogen Solaris Buses
Solaris and RVK’s collaboration is hailed as a significant step towards a future where hydrogen’s role in public transport is pivotal. Solaris board member Olivier Michard underscores the Cologne and Bonn region’s remarkable progress as a European leader in hydrogen adoption.
The state-of-the-art Urbino 18 hydrogen buses, characterized by their electric central motor and modular drive, will redefine passenger capacity and comfort. Equipped with an advanced 100 kW fuel cell set, these buses can store over 50 kilograms of hydrogen in roof-mounted cylinders, ensuring an impressive 350-kilometer range.
Related: Germany: RVK Orders 100 Hydrogen-Powered Fuel Cell Hybrid Buses
Along with their environmental benefits, these hydrogen-powered buses will feature advanced technologies such as high-efficiency air conditioning, robust monitoring systems, and enhanced passenger and remote management systems.
RVK’s Managing Director, Marcel Frank, emphasizes gratitude towards the BMDV’s assistance, underlining the project’s importance in expanding sustainable local public transportation. This pioneering approach to mobility demonstrates a conscious and concerted effort to reduce the environmental footprint, marking a significant step forward in the global transition to cleaner energy.
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