Hyzon and BLK’s have scored an Australian first by putting the first hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric coach on local roads, with the coach that is believed to be the first of 44 to go to Fortescue Metals for its Pilbara Iron Ore operations, being unveiled in Brisbane today.
The 50 seat BLK coach fitted with a Hyzon Motors zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell-driveline, arrived in Brisbane last week ahead of the reveal in the Queensland capital today
Hyzon partnered with BLK Auto to produce the fuel cell coach, which it says will have a 700km with its electric motor delivering 350 kilowatt of power.
The Australian CEO of the now USA based Hyzon, Craig Knight said the hydrogen-powered coach is an example of Hyzon’s increasing investment in Australia.
“We recognise that Australia’s vast distances and sparse infrastructure are unique challenges in a decarbonising world, and the company is growing its presence to serve the market.
“Zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles provide the operational capabilities of diesel vehicles – long range, significant power – with the environmental benefits of a battery electric vehicle,” said Knight.
“We applaud the various governments in Australia for recognizing this and facilitating the adoption of hydrogen as evidenced by various funding packages and incentive programs,” he added.
Interest from customers is high in Australia, and Hyzon has already announced binding and non-binding agreements for refuse collection trucks and an ultra heavy prime mover in addition to the coaches that have been ordered by FMG.
BLK Auto Managing Director Jason Pecotic said the coach has attracted significant interest since it arrived at our facility.
There has been tremendous interest from local bus operators, from various government departments, mining companies and tourism operators asll of whome have coming to see the hydrogen powered coach in action and learn more about how these zero emission, hydrogen fuel cell-powered coaches can be adopted in their respective industries,” said Pecotic .
While initial Hyzon says its vehicles will be imported from factories internationally, it expects to localise production of key platforms in Australia from 2022
