Dublin’s first hydrogen-powered bus will soon begin trials in the capital city, Hydrogen Mobility Ireland confirmed today (10th Nov).

Marking the first hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle to be put into public service operation in Ireland, the bus will be developed by bus and coach manufacturer CaetanoBus and powered by a 60kW Toyota fuel cell stack.

Once operational, the H2.CityGold vehicle will run on green hydrogen produced by Dublin by BOC Gases Ireland, using renewable electricity and water.

The CaetanoBus bus will be operated on different routes by CIÉ Group bus companies Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus, as well as by Dublin City University (DCU) and Dublin Airport over a number of weeks in November and December.

As part of HMI’s roadmap for hydrogen deployment, the collaborative trial will extend from early November to mid-December giving real in-use information on the practical operation of the technology in varying weather, usage, and traffic conditions.

During trials, the bus will carry limited passengers due to current coronavirus restrictions.

Mark Teevan, Chairman of Hydrogen Mobility Ireland, said, “This should be viewed as an important event, not because it’s the first hydrogen bus on the road; but because it is a first step into the future for Ireland, enabling us to begin to envisage the practical solutions that will allow us to fully decarbonise road transport.”

“We are all very conscious of the Environmental challenge we face in meeting our 2030 targets and the need to find zero emissions solutions that will satisfy the varying needs of different users; public transport, haulage, van delivery, taxi or private car.”

Professor Daire Keogh, President of Dublin City University, added, “Dublin City University is devoted to creating a sustainable world, not only by placing sustainability at the core of all of our activities but through our research, academic expertise and industry collaborations.”

“The Caetano hydrogen bus trial is testament to this and Dublin City University is delighted to play an active part, with all partners in the realisation of this project.”