RATP France starts Caetano hydrogen bus trial
RATP group is working with CaetanoBus to test an H2.CityGold bus in Paris. “Hydrogen is a key factor for the years to come,” says Marie-Claude Dupuis, deputy managing director, RATP group. “This second experiment confirms RATP group’s desire to become a major player in the sector.”
The Caetano H2.CityGold, equipped with a Toyota fuel cell, will offer a range of 450km to match conventional diesel buses and will be put into public service operation on routes 189 and 21. The demonstration is designed to enable RATP to learn about the practical operation of hydrogen technology and provide in-use information of daily driving conditions with varying weather, usage, and traffic environments.
“While carbon-free mobility is required in European cities and territories, the electrification of common transport is necessary, especially with regard to buses,” adds Frank Marotte, president and CEO of Toyota France. “Toyota’s approach is in line with this desire to develop zero-emission vehicles for the greatest number of people, relying on CaetanoBus’ long experience in offering public transport solutions.”
During the demonstration, the vehicle will be based at RATP’s depot in Fontenay-aux-Roses and it will be refuelled at Les Loges-en-Josas station, south of Paris.