While most of the focus on hydrogen fuel-cell tech over the past decade has been on passenger cars, with automakers like Toyota even offering a hydrogen model to California residents, the focus is now shifting to trucks and buses, as fleets seek to implement zero-emissions targets.
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) revealed this week it will purchase 10 fuel-cell electric buses (FCEBs) as part of an evaluation effort, as it proceeds to its zero-emission fleet goals. The 40-foot buses themselves will be produced by New Flyer of America, and are expected to be delivered by next summer.
New Flyer’s Xcelsior Charge FC 40-foot model features 40 to 52 seats, and a range of over 370 miles along with a fueling time ranging from 6 to 20 minutes.
“Hydrogen buses offer similar range and performance as diesel-hybrid buses with quieter operation, lower maintenance costs, and less than half the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions,” SEPTA noted in a statement.