Daimler Buses Premieres the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro Fuel Cell Electric Bus in Barcelona

Daimler Buses is showcasing its first series-production electric bus with fuel cell as a range extender, the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro fuel cell, at Global Public Transport Summit (GPTS) in Barcelona, Spain. The new, zero-emissions regular-service bus can run for around 350 kilometres without having to recharge, and offers space for up to 128 passengers.

It is based on a battery-electric drive system with NMC 3 high-performance batteries, while the fuel cell with an output of 60 kW serves as a hydrogen generator to extend the range. 

In the solo bus, the fuel cell module, weighing around 240 kilograms, is mounted on the roof in a position just behind the front axle.

On the articulated bus it is positioned on the roof at the front of the rear section.

The body and chassis of the eCitaro fuel cell are largely identical to those of the Citaro.

The company says it is the ideal addition for transport operators with an existing battery-electric fleet aiming to operating their long routes without having to recharge and without having to put on additional buses.

In a press release, the company states: 'The new and locally emission-free Mercedes-Benz eCitaro fuel cell perfectly complements an existing fleet of electric buses. With its fuel cell technology, it covers challenging routes with long cycles without recharging. Its concept also focuses on the total cost of ownership: The drive’s energy supply is primarily provided by low-cost mains power, while hydrogen, which is currently still costly, is used to extend the range'.

Daimler Truck AG is one of the world's largest commercial vehicle manufacturers, with over 35 main locations worldwide and approximately 100,000 employees.