Case study - Heavy duty transport

Let’s look at the hydrogen bus supply chain in transport.

In this video we will hear from Neil and Ross from Foton Australia who discuss their role in the electrification of heavy transport, particularly buses and large trucks. They explain when and why it is suitable to use a fuel cell electric vehicle in heavier applications in comparison to battery electric. It is important to note that both forms of electrified transport technology have their more and less suitable applications in the transport sector.

For hydrogen fuel cell electric heavy vehicles, the hydrogen supply chain includes several key stages, from the production of hydrogen to its use as a fuel in buses and trucks.

• Hydrogen production (renewables plus electrolysis for green hydrogen is ideal)
• Hydrogen storage and distribution to bus depot or truck fuelling station.
• Fuelling infrastructure required to safely store and dispense high pressure or liquid hydrogen fuel to buses (hydrogen storage tanks, dispensers, and safety systems).
• Vehicle production (buses and trucks that run using hydrogen fuel cells)
• Electrified vehicle operation that differs slightly from traditional combustion vehicles
• Maintenance of vehicle and fuelling infrastructure of integrated electrical and high pressure gas systems.

Your task

After watching the FOTON bus video, share your thoughts on the transport options within hydrogen. Do you see hydrogen having a big influence on the transport sector?