The recent incident at the Optymo depot in Danjoutin involved the destruction of seven hydrogen-powered buses due to a fire.
Initial findings indicate that the cause was electrical, not related to the use of hydrogen. The Director of the Régie des transports du Territoire de Belfort, Yannick Monnier, assured that the fire was not linked to hydrogen, as the affected vehicle had been out of service since December 31, ruling out thermal activity.
Monnier emphasized that the safety mechanisms of the hydrogen buses functioned as intended. The TPRD fuses allowed the safe evacuation of hydrogen, producing hissing sounds that alerted nearby residents and attracted emergency services. The fire was fueled by burning plastics and other materials, while hydrogen flames were quickly managed by these safety systems. Belfort’s hydrogen bus strategy remains unchanged, with plans to have half the fleet hydrogen-powered by 2025.
Italy’s bus market experienced significant growth in 2024, with 4,920 buses and coaches registered, an increase of 20% from the previous year. This marks the highest annual registration since 2018 and shows the industry’s shift towards electrification, with nearly 1,000 electric buses recorded. The increase reflects a growing trend towards sustainability, driven by European legislative targets and consumer demand for environmentally friendly transportation. Bus manufacturers are responding to this demand with innovative solutions, aligning with the sector’s evolving focus on sustainability.
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