We have delivered the first of 15 hydrogen buses to OVAG (Oberbergische Verkehrsgesellschaft), the public transport operator in Oberberg region in Germany. Over the coming weeks, all vehicles will gradually be introduced into regular service.

The official launch of the hydrogen fleet in Oberberg took place at the OVAG depot in Wipperfürth-Hämmern. The event was attended by representatives of the operator, local authorities, and the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV).

The highlight of the event was the official presentation of the Solaris Urbino 12 hydrogen bus in its distinctive blue livery promoting hydrogen technology and bearing the slogan “Zero emissions, 100% power.”

The first official passenger service using Solaris hydrogen bus took place on April 14, on line 336, which runs from the Wipperfürth bus station to Gummersbach 

“Zero emissions, 100% power” – the slogan displayed on the buses captures the core idea behind hydrogen technology: hydrogen stored in rooftop tanks is fed into a fuel cell that generates electricity and powers the drivetrain. The only byproducts of the reaction in the fuel cell are heat and water vapor.

Importantly, the buses in Oberberg are powered by so-called green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources – in this case, wind power.

The buses ordered by OVAG are equipped with 70 kW fuel cells and Solaris High Power batteries that support the drivetrain during periods of increased energy demand. Propulsion is provided by a central 160 kW electric motor. A number of advanced features have been integrated into the vehicles to enhance passenger comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. When fully refueled, the buses offer a range that ensures efficient operation even in the demanding topography of the Oberberg region.

Solaris is committed to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly cities. We are proud that OVAG has chosen us as their partner for introducing hydrogen technology into their public transport network. Hydrogen buses represent cutting-edge technology that improves air quality while providing operational flexibility and high travel comfort. To date, we have delivered over 250 hydrogen buses to operators across Germany,” said Alan Przyłębski, Sales Director of Solaris Deutschland GmbH.

said Alan Przyłębski, Sales Director of Solaris Deutschland GmbH.

The bus purchase was supported by €4.3 million in funding under a federal program promoting alternative drivetrains in public transport. This support enabled OVAG not only to acquire the buses but also to adapt infrastructure, train staff, and launch a mobile hydrogen refueling station. A permanent hydrogen refueling station is planned to be commissioned in Wipperfürth in 2026.

Without the significant financial support from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport and the involvement of local authorities, this project would not have been possible. 

– emphasized Corinna Güllner, Managing Director of OVAG, during the inauguration. 

Solaris continues to strengthen its position as a leading supplier of hydrogen buses in Germany. So far, the company has delivered over 250 Urbino hydrogen buses to German public transport operators. Since its debut in 2019, the Urbino 12 hydrogen has attracted growing interest across Europe – in both large urban areas and smaller cities seeking alternatives to diesel-powered fleets.