Initially unveiled in January, VVTA's fuel cell bus fleet is now in regular service in California
U.S. transit agency, Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA), has begun a phased introduction of 13 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses into passenger service in California’s High Desert. Powered by Ballard's fuel cells, the deployment progresses the recent fleet unveiling to daily operation across the agency’s network.
Utilizing New Flyer’s Xcelsior CHARGE FC™ zero-emission bus, the fleet is now in operation across VVTA’s network – connecting passengers from the Victor Valley Transportation Center to San Bernardino, Fontana, and California State University.
Each bus integrates Ballard’s FCmove®-HD+ 100kW fuel cell engine, which delivers proven performance, durability, and reliability. Its compact, easy-to-integrate design provides an efficient solution for public transit operations, while robust proton-exchange membrane (PEM) technology delivers the power, range, and efficiency required for VVTA’s service routes.
"Today marks more than the launch of hydrogen buses; it represents another major step forward in how we serve our communities. Putting hydrogen fuel cell technology into daily passenger service allows us to see these buses perform in the real world while providing our passengers with a cleaner and quieter ride. We're gathering valuable data today that will help shape how VVTA operates tomorrow, as hydrogen becomes the backbone of our fleet for years to come."
[Source: Mass Transit Mag]
Dustin Strandberg
Chief Maintenance Officer, VVTA
During the initial period of phased operation, VVTA will collect critical operational data, evaluate performance under real-world conditions, and conduct additional testing as the buses operate throughout its service area.
Operating across a topographically diverse service area, the VVTA says hydrogen fuel cell buses are the preferred solution as the vehicles are capable of traveling significant distances while maintaining the flexibility needed for the agency's demanding daily transit schdule.
VVTA operates urban, rural, and long-distance commuter routes across the High Desert and beyond, requiring vehicles that can deliver robust and reliable performance, with superior operational range across a variety of challenging climates and conditions.
VVTA's new fuel cell bus fleet at the transit operator's depot in Hesperia, CA
To support the new fleet, VVTA is employing a mobile hydrogen fueler from Linde, with a second mobile unit planned to serve the entire fuel cell bus fleet. With additional support from Air Liquide, VVTA is currently constructing a permanent hydrogen refueling station at its Hesperia facility - including an interim fueling solution - which will significantly improve the agency's capacity to service and refuel its fuel cell-powered fleet.
The agency's facility has capacity for up to 60 buses daily, providing scope to support a larger hydrogen fleet beyond this initial deployment.
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