Wrightbus has debuted the world’s first fuel-cell-powered double-deck bus at this year’s Euro Bus Expo 2018. The StreetDeck FCEV uses a Ballard FCVelocity fuel cell, a Siemens drivetrain and 48kW traction battery pack. The system delivers a 200-mile (322km) operating range, and a 265-mile (426km) extended storage option is also available. Refueling the bus takes approximately seven minutes.
The vehicle’s electric drive axle is packaged to provide a flat floor throughout the bus, and features a zero-emission heating and cooling system. Remote diagnostics are also available. Lightweight hydrogen storage tanks are included, and an automatic BMS continuously monitors and balances the stored power while the vehicle is in use.
The modular platform developed by Wrightbus means that the StreetDeck FCEV shares the same chassis as the manufacturer’s full-electric models – the rear module contains equipment for overnight charging, opportunity charging or fuel cell components depending on the vehicle’s specification. The chassis also serves as the platform for both single- and double-deck models.
