SLOVAKIA
Slovakian operator 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 which could extend to up to 40 Urbino 12 hydrogen buses for the Slovakian capital. The new buses will be the first ever hydrogen buses not only in Bratislava, but also in Slovakia, and are expected to 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. 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 70kW fuel cell pack that acts as a miniature hydrogen power plant. The hydrogen system also features auxiliary devices, such as to supply hydrogen and air at an adequate pressure, to recirculate hydrogen that has not been used, and also to maintain a proper and stable temperature of the fuel cells during operation. The hydrogen is stored in gaseous form in composite tanks on the bus roof. The tanks themselves are rigorously tested, says Solaris, and have been designed to ensure maximum safety for the driver, passengers and pedestrians.
