The city of Cottbus, positioned as the second-largest city in Brandenburg, Germany, is set to enhance its public transport network with zero-emission buses from Wrightbus. A total of 46 state-of-the-art hydrogen buses will be integrated into the city's fleet, contributing to Germany's ambitious renewable hydrogen scheme backed by €350 million in government support.
This new order from Cottbusverkehr GmbH emphasizes Europe's shift towards clean public transport solutions. Wrightbus, demonstrating a significant rebound since its 2019 buyout, now stands as a beacon of industry growth and innovation, aligning with its recent title as Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing company.
The Kite Hydroliner buses will not only serve Cottbus but also broaden their reach to the western Spree-Neiße district starting in 2025. These buses comply with the VDV regulations and the European General Safety Regulation GSR2, ensuring both safety and eco-friendliness.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Wrightbus, asserts that this partnership is crucial for reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and embracing hydrogen as a key energy source in public transportation. The company's strategy not only reflects its commitment to a greener footprint but also sets a new standard for the entire European public transport sector.
Ralf Thalmann, CEO of Cottbusverkehr, heralds this as a significant stride towards climate-neutral local transport. Mayor Marietta Tzschoppe echoes the sentiment, deeming it a pivotal step for Cottbus and a concrete manifestation of the energy transition.
The buses are set for delivery by the end of 2024, marking a historic shift for Cottbus as it bids farewell to combustion engines in public transport after nearly 140 years. This transition to hydrogen-powered buses exemplifies the potential of the energy revolution, particularly in regions like Lusatia, paving the way for a greener future.
For more on the impactful strides being made in green public transportation, stay tuned to EAFO’s continuous coverage.
Source: Cottbusverkehr (2024)
