French manufacturer SAFRA is to deliver 10 HYCITY hydrogen buses to Keolis. The 10 vehicles will be destined for Clermont Auvergne Métropole and SMTC-AC, who will operate them on a hydrogen line of the T2C network, line 35-36. This new order completes the SAFRA order book already for 2024. This acquisition is part of the InspiRe energy transition project, with Keolis as prime contractor.
The InspiRe project involves the development of a unique and innovative ecosystem dedicated to hydrogen, from the production of 100% carbon-free energy (Gravanches station), to the fuelling of the vehicle fleet (Cournon-d'Auvergne compression and distribution station), as well as the commissioning of 10 new buses and 4 retrofitted coaches. It is an initiative by Clermont Auvergne Métropole and Syndicat Mixte des Transports en Commun de l'Agglomération Clermontoise's (SMTC-AC) as
part of a global project with the aim of bringing together all the facets of a complete hydrogen ecosystem. Keolis will coordinate all the partner companies involved in the implementation of the project, from the production of renewable hydrogen, to the fuelling of the fleet and the sharing of acquired experience. The 10 new HYCITY buses will be delivered to Keolis mid-2024 and replaces its predecessor, Businova. The vehicles are supplied including a full maintenance contract.