New Zealand’s first hydrogen bus is being powered by Ballard Power Systems technology.

The Canadian proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell products designer today (16th

Designed and developed by Global Bus Ventures (GBV), the hydrogen fuel cell bus (FCEB) has been road-tested over the past several weeks in the city of Rolleston and is planned to enter service later this month with Auckland Transport.

GBV was awarded a contract by Auckland Transport – which has responsibility for all transport services in the city – in 2019 for the supply of a FCEB to be used as part of the Ports of Auckland hydrogen fuel production and refuelling plant trial.

“The successful running of this system paves the way for a strong future in manufacturing these high-technology zero-emission buses in New Zealand,” said Mike Parker, Executive Vice-President at Global Bus Ventures.

Rob Campbell, Ballard’s Chief Commercial Officer, added, “This important step in New Zealand is another clear indication of the growing global interest in fuel cells as the primary propulsion system for medium and heavy-duty motive applications, including transit buses, where key requirements include heavy payload, long range and fast refuelling.”

“These are all needs that can be met cost-effectively with Ballard fuel cell modules and hydrogen fuel.”