Northern Ireland-based zero-emission bus manufacturer Wrightbus has delivered 12 new hydrogen vehicles to German operator WestVerkehr.
The latest order completion of Kite Hydroliner single decks means there are now 43 of its hydrogen-powered buses on the streets of Germany – with about 130 due to be on the roads by the end of 2025.
WestVerkehr is based in the westernmost district of Germany, on the border with the Netherlands, and will operate the Kite Hydroliners between Heinsberg, Hückelhoven, and Erkelenz.
With its range of up to 1,000 kilometres, the Kite Hydroliner is designed for long journeys.
Refuelling takes less than 10 minutes and the vehicles can accommodate up to 90 passengers.
The buses for WestVerkehr meet the requirements of the VDV (Association of German Transport Companies) and the European General Safety Regulation (GSR2).
In addition, Wrightbus has opened a European service centre in Brühl, near Cologne.
The facility includes a spare parts warehouse, and, according to Wrightbus, it is the first step on the way to it building a comprehensive network of service centres on the continent, replicating the network that already exists in the UK.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Wrightbus, said, “Under the AllServiceOne brand, our team of experts maintains and services all types of buses here in the heart of Europe.
“This includes those from other manufacturers and with different drive types.
“We are delighted that WestVerkehr is bringing our zero-emission hydrogen buses onto the roads of North Rhine-Westphalia.
“This benefits the environment and ensures that people in the region breathe better air.
“What means just as much to us is the excellent partnership and cooperation with WestVerkehr.”
