The global rollout of platinum -based hydrogen fuel cell buses is progressing rapidly, as noted by the World Platinum Investment Council. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) use hydrogen-powered fuel cells to generate electricity for propulsion, offering zero-emission alternatives to traditional diesel buses. Recent advancements in fuel cell technology and engineering are making these buses more efficient and accessible, supporting a global shift towards sustainable public transport.
The council further highlights that growing participation among original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the drive to meet climate policy commitments are accelerating global adoption of hydrogen buses. These developments reflect a multifaceted approach, combining technological innovation, policy support, and industry collaboration to decarbonise public transport.
As fuel cell technologies improve and deployment scales increase, forecasts suggest stronger long-term demand for platinum used in hydrogen fuel cells powering bus fleets. Hydrogen propulsion capacity refers to the total power output enabled by the fuel cell engines installed in these vehicles, with significant implications for energy efficiency and fleet performance.
For example, in North America, bus manufacturer New Flyer recently signed an agreement with Ballard to supply 500 hydrogen fuel cell engines , representing a 50 MW hydrogen propulsion capacity. This figure indicates the total amount of power these engines can deliver collectively, underscoring New Flyer’s largest commitment to Ballard in their decade-long partnership. Deliveries beginning this year will power New Flyer’s Xcelsior CHARGE FC™ hydrogen fuel cell buses, supporting public transportation agencies as they transition from diesel fleets to cleaner alternatives.
Similarly, other regions are advancing their hydrogen bus initiatives, reflecting a worldwide commitment to sustainable mobility. In Portugal, CaetanoBus—a subsidiary of Toyota Caetano Portugal and Mitsui & Co—has shifted from being solely a bus OEM to a mobility solutions provider. CaetanoBus led a consortium to deliver a comprehensive hydrogen mobility solution for Porto, including the city’s first hydrogen-powered bus rapid transit system . This project marks a collaborative effort between manufacturers and local authorities, demonstrating how partnerships can accelerate the adoption of clean transport solutions.
Under the contract, CaetanoBus is responsible for supplying 12 hydrogen fuel cell buses, deploying a local green hydrogen production system , and installing hydrogen refuelling station infrastructure . This integrated approach ensures efficient operations and reliable service, setting a benchmark for future projects.
REGULATORY ALIGNMENT
In Europe, Bosch is reinforcing the supply landscape by launching the FCPM C100—a rooftop-mounted fuel cell module for city buses. A fuel cell module is a compact unit containing the essential components needed to convert hydrogen into electricity, providing the power required for vehicle propulsion. Bosch’s solution is designed to help bus operators comply with new EU regulations, which require a 90% reduction in carbon emissions from newly registered city buses by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. Vehicles equipped with fuel cell power modules are recognised by the EU as zero-emission, making them critical to achieving these ambitious targets.
In addition to European progress, Asian countries are also making significant strides. In Japan, Toyota and Isuzu are co-developing a next- generation hydrogen fuel cell bus, based on Isuzu’s flat-floor battery electric bus platform, with Toyota providing the fuel cell system . By standardising parts across battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles, the companies aim to reduce costs and promote wider adoption. These collaborations are supported by Japanese government initiatives, targeting Priority Regions for fuel cell commercial vehicle deployment and contributing to steady reductions in CO2 emissions.
Together with local governments and businesses, Toyota and Isuzu are supporting Japan’s goal of expanding FCEV use, helping to steadily reduce emissions and advance clean public transport solutions nationwide.
Elsewhere in Asia, China has achieved one of the largest single hydrogen bus deployments, delivering 249 hydrogen fuel cell buses in Guangzhou. These vehicles are gradually being integrated into the city’s public transport network, supporting Guangzhou’s long-term strategy for low-carbon, zero-emission mobility. This large-scale rollout demonstrates both government and industry commitment to cleaner urban transportation.
In South Korea, Hyundai Motor Company has launched the 2026 Universe hydrogen electric intercity bus, setting new standards with a 960 km range, ten-minute refuelling capability, and proven durability across extreme climates. This model further illustrates how technology leaders and governments are working together to advance FCEV adoption and decarbonise public transport across diverse geographies. Collectively, these global examples showcase a broad, coordinated effort to leverage partnerships, regulatory support, and technological innovation for sustainable mobility.