The Slovakian carrier Dopravný podnik Bratislava (DPB) has opted for four hydrogen buses to be manufactured and delivered by Solaris. This is the first order placed under a framework agreement. In the long run, up to 40 Urbino 12 hydrogen vehicles may make their way to the Slovakian capital.
This week, the public transport operator in Bratislava has signed a contract to purchase four Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen buses. They will be the first ever hydrogen buses not only in Bratislava, but also in Slovakia. According to a framework agreement concluded by DPB with the bus maker, the Slovakian carrier may eventually order up to 40 hydrogen buses. The first four Urbino 12 hydrogen vehicles will be delivered in July next year.
“Our partnership with Bratislava started back in 2006. Over the years, we have delivered 50 vehicles with diesel and CNG drives to that city. Currently, we are accompanying DPB in the deployment of hydrogen technology, which is one of the most crucial when it comes to planning modern and clean urban public transport. Thus, Bratislava is setting a great example for other European towns and cities”, said Javier Calleja, CEO of Solaris Bus & Coach.
The heart of the Urbino 12 hydrogen bus is a 70 kW fuel cell pack that acts as a miniature hydrogen power plant aboard the vehicle. The hydrogen system also features auxiliary devices, for instance to supply hydrogen and air at an adequate pressure, to recirculate hydrogen that has not been used up, and also to maintain a proper and stable temperature of the fuel cells during operation. Electricity generated during operation of the vehicle in the fuel cell is passed on directly to the driveline. The hydrogen is stored in gaseous form in cutting-edge composite tanks placed on the bus roof. The hydrogen tanks themselves are rigorously tested, and have been designed to ensure maximum safety for the driver, passengers and pedestrians.
In the photo: Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen in Cologne.
Information Solaris
Solaris Bus & Coach sp. z o.o. is one of the leading producers of city and intercity buses in Europe. It focuses in particular on the development of zero-emission vehicles, i. e. electric and hydrogen buses as well as trolleybuses. This has resulted in the widest zero-emission product range in the European market and a leading position in this segment with a market share of 15.2%. Nearly 25,000 Solaris vehicles have been delivered so far and they ply the streets in 850 towns and cities across 33 countries located throughout Europe as well as beyond it. Solaris is part of the Spanish CAF Group (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles) S.A. From conception, to the design and manufacturing phases, all Solaris buses are produced in Poland. Moreover, all activities undertaken by the manufacturer are in line with the brand’s mission, which is reflected in the motto “We are changing the image of public transport”. Solaris also actively partners with public transport operators and provides them with comprehensive support in their transition to zero-emission mobility.
Additional information
Mateusz Figaszewski
E-mobility Development & Market Intelligence Director
mateusz.figaszewski@solarisbus.com
