The Górnośląsko-Zagłębiowska Metropolia (GZM) in Poland has announced a tender titled “Zakup autobusów wodorowych” as part of the Hydrogen GZM project. Published on July 5, 2024, the tender aims to procure hydrogen-powered electric buses, with a submission deadline set for August 15, 2024.
This initiative is a significant step for the hydrogen industry, which is seeking to expand the use of hydrogen fuel in public transportation.
The primary objective of this tender is to purchase a fleet of hydrogen-powered buses to serve the GZM metropolitan area, which includes cities like Katowice, Gliwice, and Sosnowiec. These buses will be part of the broader Hydrogen GZM project, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable urban development.
The tender outlines several key requirements:
1. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology: The buses must be equipped with the latest technology, which converts hydrogen gas into electricity, powering the electric motors. This technology is crucial because it produces zero emissions, emits only water vapor, and contributes to cleaner air in the metropolitan area.
2. Battery Capacity and Range: Each bus must have a sufficient battery capacity to ensure a minimum range of 400 kilometers on a single hydrogen refueling. This specification ensures that the buses can operate effectively throughout the day without frequent refueling stops, thus enhancing operational efficiency.
3. Safety Standards: Compliance with stringent hydrogen storage and handling safety standards is mandatory. This includes robust safety features for hydrogen tanks to prevent leaks and withstand accidents, ensuring passenger and public safety.
4. Passenger Capacity and Accessibility: The buses should have a capacity to comfortably accommodate at least 70 passengers, including provisions for standing passengers. Additionally, they should be accessible to individuals with disabilities, incorporating features such as low floors and wheelchair ramps.
This tender represents a substantial investment in hydrogen technology, signaling a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable public transportation options in Poland. GZM aims to reduce its carbon footprint, improve air quality, and set a precedent for other metropolitan areas to adopt similar green initiatives by prioritizing hydrogen-powered buses.
Interested bidders must submit their proposals by August 15, 2024, to be considered for this pivotal project. This timeline provides potential suppliers with ample opportunity to present detailed plans that meet the outlined specifications and contribute to the future of sustainable public transport in Poland.
