Aberdeen receives world-first hydrogen double-decker bus

Aberdeen receives world-first hydrogen-powered double-decker bus. 

The hydrogen buses will be trialled around the city for several weeks during a period of final testing and training for drivers, the buses are expected to be in service from next month. 

The refuelling of the buses takes less than 10 minutes and according to the council, they offer a greater range than an electric equivalent. 

The UK’s first hydrogen production and bus refuelling station opened in Aberdeen in 2015 as part of a £19m green transport demonstration project. This council-led project tested the economic and environmental benefits of hydrogen transport in a bid to drive the development of hydrogen alternatives. 

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Cllr Jenny Laing said: ‘We are very proud to bring the world’s first hydrogen-powered double-decker buses to Aberdeen as it shows the city continues to be at the forefront of developing green technologies.

‘The roll-out of the new double-decker buses will help to cement Aberdeen’s position as an entrepreneurial and technological leader as the new buses come with even more advanced technology which pushes established hydrogen boundaries and greatly assists us in tackling air pollution in the city.’

Cllr Douglas Lumsden added: ‘It is fantastic to see the world’s first hydrogen-powered double-decker bus arrive in Aberdeen and they further show our commitment to achieving net-zero.

‘By leveraging our unique assets and capabilities, we will help lead the world on the rapid shift to a net-zero future and support the global energy transition as a climate positive city.

‘We are responding, as a city and place, to the environmental imperative and also our role as a world leader in the energy sector as an economic driver for the city, region, Scotland and the UK.’

Photo Credit – Aberdeen City Council