Prague's first hydrogen-powered public transport bus is now in service

Prague has made a significant move towards sustainable transportation by introducing the first hydrogen-powered public transport bus in the Czech Republic into regular service this weekend. The initiative is a collaboration between the City of Prague's transport company DPP, Škoda Group, ORLEN Unipetrol, and the city itself.

The Škoda H'CITY hydrogen bus commenced its pilot operation on Line No. 170 between Jižní Město and Pražská čtvrť on Friday afternoon and is set to run on weekdays during rush hours until through end of July. Afterward, it will operate daily for all-day service.

The decision to implement the hydrogen bus onto Line No. 170 was based on various factors, including the line's length, profile, and proximity to Prague's first hydrogen filling station, located on K Barrandovu street.

"The trial operation of a hydrogen bus on a regular route is proof that Prague is a leader in the use of the most modern technologies, smart and locally emission-free energy solutions," Prague's Deputy Mayor for Transport Zdeněk Hřib says in a press release.

"After a trial run in the real conditions of Prague public transport, we will already know to what extent hydrogen technology can replace diesel buses in Prague and be an alternative to electric vehicles."

During the pilot operation, the hydrogen bus will undergo rigorous testing under real-world conditions to evaluate its performance, technical aspects, and economic viability for potential future expansion.

City officials expressed pride in Prague's leading role in adopting modern, environmentally-friendly technologies. While hydrogen technology presents higher acquisition and operational costs compared to traditional diesel vehicles, city authorities remain optimistic about its potential to decrease emissions and diversify propulsion sources.

Škoda Group's President Petr Novotný emphasized the bus's state-of-the-art design, offering zero emissions and minimal noise, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future for Czech cities. Hydrogen is becoming an increasingly important player in mass transportation and road and rail services, complementing battery-powered electromobility.

ORLEN Unipetrol, known for its active involvement in alternative energy infrastructure, already operates two hydrogen filling stations in Barrandov and Litvínov in Prague, contributing to the growing popularity of hydrogen as an eco-friendly fuel source.

The Škoda H'CITY hydrogen bus boasts advanced technical features, such as Ballard FC Move 70 PEM fuel cells, Nano Power LTO traction battery, and a standardized CCS2 charging socket.

With a maximum range of 350 kilometers and the capacity to accommodate up to 85 passengers, including two wheelchair or stroller spaces, the bus serves as a versatile and sustainable addition to Prague's public transport fleet.