Gatwick Airport and its surrounding areas are witnessing a significant shift in public transport as a fleet of 20 hydrogen-powered buses takes to the roads.
The launch of this zero-emission bus service is made possible by a £30 million investment from Go-Ahead Group, a leading transport operator. With plans to add an additional 34 hydrogen-fueled vehicles over the next 18 months, the total fleet size will exceed 50 buses. The deployment of these buses is accompanied by the development of a liquid hydrogen refueling station in Crawley, which is set to become the largest of its kind in Europe.
The hydrogen buses, manufactured by Wrightbus, a renowned Northern Ireland-based battery and hydrogen bus manufacturer, utilize cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell technology. Stored in liquid form at the depot, hydrogen is converted to gas and held in tanks on the roof of the vehicles. This innovative approach ensures zero emissions during operation, contributing to improved air quality and reduced environmental impact.
The introduction of hydrogen buses marks a significant step toward revolutionizing transportation in the area. With heavy-load carrying capacity and the ability to cover long-range journeys, these buses are well-suited for the demanding 24-hour routes around Gatwick Airport. Passengers and airport staff alike will experience quieter and smoother journeys, enhancing their travel experience. Moreover, the shift to zero-emission buses aligns with sustainability goals, as the reduced carbon footprint contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The UK government’s Road and Local Transport Minister, Richard Holden, hailed the hydrogen buses as a potential game-changer in the transport sector. With over £4.3 million in funding from the Ultra-Low Emission Bus scheme, the deployment of these 20 new buses brings the total number of zero-emission buses in the UK to nearly 3,400 since February 2020. The government aims to achieve a target of 4,000 zero-emission buses, signaling a commitment to cleaner and greener transportation.
Stewart Wingate, CEO of Gatwick Airport, emphasized the importance of sustainable transport for passengers and staff. With a goal of having half of all passengers and staff using sustainable transportation options, the airport has invested in public transport facilities, including the hydrogen bus fleet. Upgrades to bus interchanges and the upcoming redevelopment of the train station further demonstrate the airport’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. Gatwick Airport anticipates further advancements in hydrogen utilization in the future.
Christian Schreyer, the Group Chief Executive of Go-Ahead, highlighted the £30 million project as evidence of the transport operator’s dedication to sustainability. Already a leading operator of electric buses in Britain, Go-Ahead sees hydrogen as a crucial component in the decarbonization of public transport. This investment in a net-zero future showcases their commitment to environmental responsibility and the well-being of local communities.
The introduction of hydrogen-powered buses coincides with a global initiative led by the World Economic Forum. CEOs from the aviation industry have come together to support a campaign that aims to establish airports as clean energy and fuel hubs. This effort aligns with the broader shift toward sustainable aviation and highlights the potential for hydrogen to play a vital role in decarbonizing airport operations.
