In order to determine the preferred commercialization pathway for buses, Hydrogenics has been involved with four different fuel cell hybrid bus projects ranging from fuel cell dominant to battery dominant. The various architectures of this range of fuel cell hybrid power trains are discussed, along with the respective global demonstrations that have taken place, or will take place, in Hawaii, Manitoba, and North-Rhine Westphalia (Germany), Alabama, South Carolina, Connecticut, and Burbank. Experiences and anticipated outcomes of each project are discussed.

 To date, Hydrogenics’ experience has indicated that buses with smaller fuel cells show significantly lower upfront costs, with promise of lower operating and maintenance costs.  In one scenario, the anticipated lifecycle costs of a fuel cell battery dominant hybrid bus are shown to be less than that of a conventional diesel bus.