Solaris, an European bus manufacturer, has recently concluded the delivery of 10 hydrogen buses to two private carriers based in the Upper Bavaria region of Germany. Divided evenly between Busreisen Ettenhuber GmbH and Martin Geldhauser GmbH & Co. KG, these modern vehicles are set to commence regular operations this coming autumn, coinciding with the anticipated finalisation of hydrogen filling stations situated at the Geldhauser and Ettenhuber depots. These forthcoming stations will exclusively dispense green hydrogen, produced from renewable energy sources in Pfeffenhausen, near Landshut.
Having been ordered by Busreisen Ettenhuber GmbH and Martin Geldhauser GmbH & Co. KG in April of the previous year, the 10 Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen buses have now been successfully transferred to these private, family-run bus carriers, serving the Munich and Ebersberg regions.
An innovative approach has been adopted in collaboration with the districts of Munich and Ebersberg, along with the Munich Transport Authority (MVV). This approach involves deploying the hydrogen buses on distinct routes, thereby amassing comprehensive data regarding various factors including route lengths, weather conditions, passenger load, and other variables. This data-driven pilot project is geared towards enhancing transport operations. Both Geldhauser and Ettenhuber buses share analogous specifications, with integrated electric motors within the axles, coupled with sophisticated fuel cell systems of 70 kW capacity. Hydrogen storage is facilitated through five tanks, collectively holding 1,560 litres, allowing the buses to cover a minimum of 350 km on a single refuelling. Additionally, these Solaris hydrogen vehicles incorporate a compact Solaris High Power traction battery, supporting the fuel cell during peak power demand.
Safety considerations are paramount, as these hydrogen buses feature the MobilEye Shield+ system. This advanced system vigilantly monitors blind spots and alerts the driver through audible and visual signals if pedestrians or cyclists enter these zones. Furthermore, the adoption of the modern eSConnect system aids in remote diagnostics, optimising fleet management by bolstering vehicle availability, reducing downtime, and curbing unnecessary depot returns.
Solaris’ delivery and deployment of these hydrogen-powered buses stand as a noteworthy development for sustainable mobility within the Bavarian context. As they prepare to ply the roads this autumn, the industry and public await the outcomes of this innovative pilot initiative with anticipation.
