Summary:
As net zero targets come into focus, particularly for the transportation sector, the choice between clean alternatives for buses becomes crucial. This comparison highlights differences in bus refuelling times and efficiency between hydrogen dispensers, electric charging units, and traditional diesel dispensers for buses.
As the transportation industry moves towards greener alternatives, the debate over the best zero-emissions bus to replace current fleets has intensified. The time to get buses back on the road is critical, especially when comparing hydrogen dispensers to electric charging units. While electric buses are zero-emission, their long charging times—7 to 8 hours—can hinder efficiency. In contrast, hydrogen dispensers can refuel a bus in just 10-16 minutes, allowing one dispenser to service up to 25 buses in the time it takes to charge one electric bus.
Watch the video below to see the comparison between hydrogen dispenser and electric recharging unit.
When we bring diesel into the equation, the efficiency contrast becomes even starker. Diesel buses, despite their environmental impact, can be refueled in just 3-5 minutes, enabling a single dispenser to refuel up to 84 buses in 7 hours. However, while diesel may currently dominate in terms of refueling speed, it’s clear that hydrogen dispensers present a compelling middle ground—offering significantly faster refueling times than electric recharging units while still supporting the transition to zero-emission transportation.
Watch the video below to see the comparison between diesel dispenser, hydrogen dispenser, and electric recharging unit.
The path to zero emissions doesn’t have to come at the cost of efficiency. Hydrogen dispensers bridge the gap between the speed of diesel and the sustainability of electric, providing a viable solution for transit agencies looking to maintain operational efficiency while reducing their environmental footprint. As cities and transit agencies continue to explore the best options for their fleets, hydrogen stands out as a powerful alternative, balancing speed, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.