Duo’s efforts bring hydrogen-powered buses closer to reality
A plan to put 150 hydrogen-powered buses on UK routes by 2024 is getting closer to reality, thanks to a partnership between Luxfer Gas Cylinders in Nottingham and global engineering consultants Ricardo.
Luxfer has developed a hydrogen storage solution for a Stagecoach North East prototype double-decker bus.
The bus was originally a diesel vehicle but was converted to run on hydrogen fuel cell technology. It underwent trials in Teesside for six weeks and was also tested on hilly routes in Brighton and Hove.
This project, which received partial funding from the Department for Transport, aims to showcase the advantages of hydrogen as a sustainable option for passenger transport by extending the lifespan of existing diesel buses.
The vehicle is equipped with Luxfer’s unique G-Stor™ H2 cylinders, forming a five-cylinder system enclosed in a custom modular frame capable of holding 24.5 kg of hydrogen.
In terms of performance, the prototype achieves a fuel consumption rate of 17 km per kg when powered by green hydrogen, resulting in zero emissions.
This consumption level is on par with currently available fuel cell buses, and there’s room for further enhancements during the production phase.
According to Ricardo’s estimations, by extending the lifespan of existing buses rather than manufacturing new ones, it’s possible to prevent the emission of 45,000 kg of carbon dioxide.
Jim Gregory, European business development manager at Luxfer Gas Cylinders, said: “Supporting the UK transport sector’s shift from diesel and petrol to more sustainable fuels means we need to offer options that are not only clean and green but commercially viable too. Many operators who have invested in diesel vehicles are now left with stock that has a much-shortened lifespan. Retrofitting buses to run on hydrogen makes sense, and at Luxfer we have the capability to work with partners to bring bespoke projects to fruition.
“Companies, like Ricardo, are making strides in adopting hydrogen technology, and we’re proud of our role in providing the right environment for others to do the same.”
