Irizar has introduced the second generation of its hydrogen-powered i6S Efficient H2 FCEV coach during the general assembly of SHYNE, the Spanish Hydrogen Network.
The vehicle has completed type-approval testing and is scheduled to enter passenger service trials with transport operator Alsa in Madrid during the summer.
The updated coach incorporates a number of changes compared with the first-generation model. These include increased luggage space, higher passenger capacity, reduced vehicle weight and an extended driving range.
The i6S Efficient H2 FCEV combines a hydrogen fuel cell with an electric propulsion system designed for medium- and long-distance coach operations. The vehicle can be refuelled in approximately 10 minutes and is capable of travelling more than 1,000 kilometres on a full tank. Irizar states that the vehicle is intended to offer operational characteristics comparable to those of conventional diesel coaches.
The first-generation hydrogen coach was presented at Busworld in 2023. Following its debut, the vehicle completed a 2,500-kilometre journey between Ormaiztegi, where Irizar is headquartered, and Briançon in the French Alps. The trip formed part of the company’s efforts to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen technology for long-distance passenger transport.
The introduction of the second-generation model reflects ongoing investment in alternative powertrain technologies across the passenger transport sector. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are being explored alongside battery-electric and other low-emission solutions as operators and manufacturers work towards reducing transport-related emissions.
