Hydrogen buses hit the road

In a commitment to more sustainable public transport operations, Transit Systems has purchased two hydrogen buses to service its public transport contracts. The buses are estimated to go into service in mid-2021.

Transit Systems, a SeaLink Travel Group company, operates government bus contracts in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and the Northern Territory, and was proud to run what is reported to be the second-longest hydrogen bus trial in the world, as part of its Transport for London (TfL) operations.

SeaLink Travel Group CEO Clint Feuerherdt said the company was committed to exploring innovative technologies that offer zero-emissions transport solutions.

“We are proudly setting the global benchmark for exploring and trialling different technologies to find and develop solutions with our key industry partners that suit the dynamic and complex operating conditions within the Australian public transport landscape,” Feuerherdt said.

“We don’t just have a willingness to adapt, but a desire to lead — and we’re proud to deliver innovative solutions to Australian streets and beyond, which broadcast a range of benefits into manufacturing and other industries.

“We are procuring and delivering these buses with the expectation and knowledge that future buses will be built here, with our partners at Foton Mobility, part of the Australian-owned True Green Mobility Group,” he said.

True Green Mobility Group CEO Luke Todd commended Transit Systems on its vision to work with government partners and deliver sustainable solutions to the market.

“Transit Systems has delivered another first to the Australian public transport sector, and we’re incredibly proud to partner with them and drive innovation and sustainability forward,” he said.

Todd explained that Foton has more than 700 hydrogen buses manufactured and deployed around the world, leading the way globally with hydrogen-powered buses. He said Foton is excited to see hydrogen buses on the road in Australia, adding that mass production is expected to be underway in Australia by early 2022, with orders being taken now.

“Being leaders in hydrogen development, the buses that will be deployed in Australia are of the highest quality with best-in-class Toyota fuel cells. The buses are extremely quiet, with zero tailpipe emissions,” he said.

Feuerherdt added that drivers and passengers reported positive experiences with a high level of comfort, as well as extended range capabilities compared with some battery electric options.

“We’re not just proud to bring hydrogen technology to Australia — we’re pleased to add it to our suite of products that demonstrate our understanding, expertise and commitment to a more sustainable public transport solution that suits each network partner and the local operating conditions across the globe,” he said.