Decision-making aid for zero-emission bus drives: New publication from e-mobil BW

How can the switch to zero-emission drives in public transport be achieved? A new practical decision-making aid from our strategic partner e-mobil BW provides well-founded answers to this question. The publication is aimed at transport companies and local authorities that want to convert their bus fleets to climate-friendly vehicles – and offers concrete support in choosing between battery and hydrogen drives.

The background to this is the EU Clean Vehicles Directive (CVD), which also applies to local public transport in Germany: from 2026, 65 per cent of newly purchased buses must be climate-friendly – at least half of them emission-free.

Battery or hydrogen? Systematic decision-making aid

The publication by e-mobil BW highlights the technical and economic requirements of both drive technologies. In addition to investment and operating costs, it analyses relevant aspects such as charging and refuelling infrastructure, workshop concepts and training requirements for staff – a valuable practical guide for the transition to sustainable mobility solutions.

Developed as part of the Baden-Württemberg Automotive Industry Strategy Dialogue

The decision-making aid is part of the Baden-Württemberg Automotive Industry Strategy Dialogue (SDA), in which representatives from politics, business, science and society have been working together since 2017 to develop solutions for the transformation of the industry. The electrification of public transport is a central component of this.

Zero-emission bus network: support from the state

In Baden-Württemberg, the specially founded Zero-Emission Bus Network supports the practical implementation of the CVD. The network brings state authorities, transport companies, municipal umbrella organisations and interest groups together around one table. They are working together to establish Baden-Württemberg as a pioneer region for climate-friendly mobility.

In addition to strategic consulting, the network also offers operational support, for example with funding applications and tenders for new vehicles.

To the complete publication (only available in German): https://www.e-mobilbw.de/service/meldungen-detail/ergebnispapier-mission-xvii-entscheidungshilfe-fuer-den-einsatz-von-strom-und-wasserstoff-im-oeffentlichen-busnahverkehr

Relevant conference session at hy-fcell 2025

How practical is the use of hydrogen in heavy-duty transport? This question will be addressed in a key specialist session at this year's hy-fcell (7–8 October 2025, Messe Stuttgart). Under the title ‘H2 Truck Fleets in Long-Distance Freight Transport’, experts from industry, logistics and politics will discuss the potential and challenges of using hydrogen in long-distance transport – particularly with regard to infrastructure, total cost of ownership and regulatory framework conditions. The English-language session will take place on 7 October 2025, approximately 1:00–2:00 p.m., as part of the conference programme.