Luxfer Gas Cylinders and global engineering consultancy Ricardo have partnered to support a project aimed at deploying 150 zero-emissions hydrogen-powered buses on UK routes by 2024.
Luxfer, a leading manufacturer of gas cylinders, has provided a specialised hydrogen storage solution for a Stagecoach North East prototype double-decker bus.
This prototype, originally a diesel-powered bus, was converted to operate using hydrogen fuel cell technology.
After a six-week testing phase in Teesside, it underwent further trials on challenging routes in Brighton and Hove.
This project, partially funded by the Department for Transport through the Hydrogen Transport Hub Demonstration competition, seeks to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen as a sustainable option for passenger transport, while extending the service life of existing diesel buses.
Jim Gregory, European Business Development Manager at Luxfer Gas Cylinders, said: “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.”
