In-der-City-Bus GmbH (ICB), the public transport management company of Frankfurt am Main, has ordered 10 hydrogen-powered buses from Solaris, Europe’s leading manufacturer of hydrogen buses.

This order is part of ICB’s commitment to electrify its bus fleet by the early 2030s and reduce its carbon footprint. ICB’s fleet already includes battery-powered Solaris Urbino 12 electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered Solaris models.

The Urbino 12 hydrogen model is a state-of-the-art bus that runs on hydrogen fuel cells, producing only heat and water vapor as by-products. The electricity generated in the process of reverse electrolysis is transmitted directly to the axle with two electric motors, which power the bus. The buses ordered by ICB will be equipped with an additional Solaris High Power battery, which plays an auxiliary role in the hydrogen bus and is used during times of high energy demand, as well as in the recuperation process. The hydrogen will be stored in gas form, in roof-mounted composite tanks that meet the highest safety standards.

The Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen will be equipped with several state-of-the-art ADAS solutions to support the driver, including the MirrorEye system, which is a set of cameras installed in place of the side mirrors to provide the driver with excellent visibility in different weather conditions.

ICB has already deployed 13 Solaris Urbino hydrogen vehicles in the metropolis since 2022 and plans to launch its own hydrogen refuelling station by mid-year. The new order of buses will be added to the ICB fleet in the first quarter of 2024.

The total value of the order is around €6.5 million. The hydrogen buses will contribute to Frankfurt’s climate protection goals by reducing emissions and helping the city meet its sustainability targets. With this order, Solaris has further consolidated its position as a leading manufacturer of hydrogen buses in Europe.

Cities around the world are increasingly using hydrogen buses for their regular urban traffic, and the technology is of growing interest to transport operators. Solaris has been developing this technology for almost a decade and has already delivered almost 120 fuel cell vehicles to 15 European cities. Since last year, Solaris hydrogen portfolio also includes an articulated model, the Urbino 18 hydrogen.

In summary, ICB’s order for 10 hydrogen buses from Solaris is a significant step towards reducing emissions and achieving Frankfurt’s climate protection goals. Solaris’ state-of-the-art technology will play an essential role in helping the city meet its sustainability targets. The Urbino 12 hydrogen model is a perfect example of a clean and efficient solution for urban transportation, and with the additional Solaris High Power battery and ADAS solutions, it will provide a comfortable and safe experience for passengers.