FEV and Daimler Buses Collaborate to Develop First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Coach
Aachen – In a groundbreaking partnership, FEV and Daimler Buses have joined forces to create the world’s first coach with a hydrogen fuel cell drive system. Named the “H₂ Coach”, this technology demonstrator, based on a conventional Setra coach, is designed for testing purposes. This achievement is a significant step towards achieving locally emission-free long-distance travel, with short refueling times, a range of at least 800 kilometers per tank filling, and quiet operation, all highlighting its practicality.
Together, Daimler Buses and FEV have successfully converted the coach from a diesel drive to a fuel cell electric vehicle. FEV was responsible for creating the overall vehicle concept and handling the mechanical and E/E integration. A notable aspect of this project is that the individual components used, including fuel cells, high-voltage components (such as batteries and electric motors), H₂ tank assemblies, and control units with accompanying software, are sourced from different technology platforms from Daimler Buses and Daimler Truck. FEV expertly integrated these systems into a functional powertrain within the vehicle.
Safety was a top priority during the development process. The team implemented measures to ensure safety in various crash load cases, as well as for functional, high-voltage, and hydrogen safety.
Klaus Wolff, Vice President Project Management at FEV, commented, “The ‘H₂ Coach’ impressively demonstrates how complex subsystems can be integrated into a testable, safe complete vehicle when vehicle, powertrain, and E/E expertise come from a single source. With our one-stop-shop approach, we quickly and efficiently delivered the desired customized solution to our customer – from concept to approval.”
Following successful approval by German technical inspection authority TÜV and passing electromagnetic compatibility tests, FEV handed over the vehicle to Daimler Buses in the summer of 2025 after approximately two years of joint project work.
For more information, please download the press release at https://fev.group/473fd1.
Media Contact: Marius Strasdat, T.: +49 241 5689-6452.
