BharatBenz, Reliance launch first hydrogen fuel cell bus

BharatBenz has showcased what is said to be India’s first intercity bus concept powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology developed by Reliance.

The hydrogen fuel cell bus concept was unveiled during the 4th Energy Transitions Working Group Meeting under the G20 held in Goa. It uses a hydrogen fuel cell with a gross output of 127 kW and net power of 105 kW, which is equivalent to a 300 BHP internal combustion diesel engine. It has a range of 400 km, making it ideal for intercity applications.

The BharatBenz hydrogen fuel cell bus is still in its concept stage. According to the company, it will undergo extensive testing over the next 12 months.

Besides BharatBenz, Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors are also working on hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. While Tata has already received the road-worthiness certificate for its hydrogen-powered buses, the former is testing a hydrogen powertrain developed by Reliance in one of its trucks.