Current generation of Solaris' H2 busImage: SolarisBallard and Solaris have enjoyed a seven-year partnership: Solaris launched its hydrogen bus, the Urbino 12 hydrogen, in 2019, while the market introduction of the articulated bus variant, the Urbino 18 hydrogen, took place in September 2022. Both vehicles use fuel cell systems from Ballard: the 12-metre version is equipped with the FCmove-HD fuel cell module, which delivers 70 kW of power, while the longer version features the FCmove-HD+ module, providing 100 kW. These fuel cell modules supply energy to the electric portal axles supplied by the German manufacturer ZF.As part of this collaboration, Ballard received an order for 1,000 fuel cell modules two years ago, initially set to run until 2027 and now extended to 2029. The Canadian company has since been commissioned to supply fuel cell modules for Solaris’s next-generation hydrogen bus. However, no further details about this new bus generation have been released yet.The new hydrogen bus will feature the FCmove-SC fuel cell module, announced last September, which operates with a peak output of 75 kW. According to the manufacturer, the system offers higher efficiency, a longer service life, and a simplified architecture that reduces the total cost of ownership (TCO) for transport operators.“Solaris’ selection of Ballard for its next‑generation hydrogen bus platform marks a significant milestone for the continued evolution of our FCmove‑SC engine,” said Marty Neese, Ballard’s CEO and President. “Our long‑standing collaboration with Solaris has been built on trust, technical excellence, and a shared commitment to zero‑emission mobility. With this selection, supported by newly adjusted commercial terms that strengthen long‑term alignment, Solaris reinforces its confidence in Ballard’s ability to deliver performance, reliability, and lifecycle value at scale.”According to Solaris, the company has already delivered over 800 hydrogen buses, with more than half of these deployed in Germany. These vehicles are currently in operation across 18 cities. For example, the Rhein-Erft-Verkehrsgesellschaft (REVG) in Germany operates a fleet of 26 H2 buses from Solaris, while the Duisburger Verkehrsgesellschaft (DVG), also in Germany, runs 25 units.ballard.com
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