Hydrogen buses hit Abu Dhabi: Hyundai delivers new fuel cell buses for testing
Abu Dhabi, a city known for its heat, high rises, and ambitious plans, just got a little greener.
Hyundai UAE, through its distributor Juma Al Majid Co. LLC, has delivered two hydrogen-powered buses as part of the city’s Green Bus Programme – an initiative aimed at testing the future of clean public transport in the desert.
The buses, a Hyundai Elec City FC and a Hyundai Universe FC, are already earning their keep.
The Elec City is handling City Route 65, while the Universe is taking on the longer Regional Route 160.
Delivered in November 2024, these buses will be put through their paces until the end of 2025 as Abu Dhabi explores how hydrogen (and electric) power can transform its public transport network.
A green programme built for the desert
The Green Bus Programme, led by Abu Dhabi’s Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), is a carefully designed effort to figure out what green technologies work best for the city’s unique environment.
Hydrogen buses, with their quick refuelling and long-range, are well-suited to the region’s high demands, but electric buses are also part of the mix, keeping the programme technology-agnostic – for now.
It’s not just about what powers the buses, though. The programme includes training opportunities for Emirati professionals, ensuring local expertise in hydrogen and electric vehicle technology.
With hands-on experience and practical training abroad, Abu Dhabi is laying the groundwork for what looks to be a long-term shift to sustainable transport.
What Hyundai has to say
Suliman Al Zaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, called the partnership with ITC a “transformative journey” towards emissions-free mobility, and highlighted its potential, saying:
“The delivery of these advanced hydrogen-powered buses to ITC marks a new chapter in our commitment to promoting clean energy and pioneering technologies in the region.
“This collaboration, supported by the visionary leadership of Juma Al Majid, reaffirms our shared dedication to creating a greener, more sustainable future while addressing the needs of Abu Dhabi’s residents and commuters”.
Hydrogen in the UAE
These buses are part of a broader global push to make hydrogen a viable alternative for everything from passenger cars to industrial transport.
The quick refuelling and long range of hydrogen buses are already proving their worth on Abu Dhabi’s streets, and if this trial succeeds, it could set the stage for a much larger hydrogen rollout.
For now, the Elec City and Universe buses are only two small pieces of the puzzle, but they’re playing a big role in shaping Abu Dhabi with the potential to redefine tomorrow’s public transport.
