Al-Ahsa, December 6, 2024 – In a groundbreaking move toward environmental sustainability and innovative transportation solutions, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has unveiled its first hydrogen-powered bus. The trial run of the bus was officially inaugurated by Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, the Governor of Al-Ahsa, on Thursday. This momentous event, held in Al-Ahsa Governorate, marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to achieving the ambitious goals set forth by Saudi Vision 2030, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly technologies across various sectors.
The hydrogen-powered bus, which has a remarkable ability to travel up to 635 kilometers on a single charge, can accommodate up to 45 passengers. The bus is designed to connect Dammam, the regional capital, to Al-Ahsa Governorate, covering a daily round trip of 359 kilometers. This trial, part of a broader intercity transportation initiative operated by SATCO (a licensed company in the southern concession area), is expected to revolutionize long-distance urban commuting in the region.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by key figures, including Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih, Vice Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and acting President of the Transport General Authority (TGA), who emphasized the trial’s significance. During the event, an introductory video was presented to the attendees, highlighting the operation of the hydrogen buses, the fueling process, safety standards, and their potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions, in line with the Kingdom's sustainability objectives. Following the presentation, Prince Saud led a tour of the governorate, showcasing the bus's capabilities and its importance for the local transportation landscape.
Prince Saud, during his remarks, expressed his pride in Al-Ahsa being the starting point for such pioneering projects, which align perfectly with the environmental sustainability goals of Saudi Vision 2030. He noted that the introduction of the hydrogen-powered bus is a concrete step toward providing modern, safe, and eco-friendly transportation services, which will undoubtedly improve the quality of life for the people of Al-Ahsa and visitors alike. He further emphasized that such initiatives contribute to making Saudi Arabia a global leader in sustainable technologies.
Dr. Al-Rumaih further elaborated on the trial as part of the TGA’s broader strategy to foster innovation and adopt sustainable transportation solutions across the Kingdom. He highlighted the trial’s alignment with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing Saudi Arabia’s regional and global competitiveness. The trial also underscores the TGA’s commitment to supporting technological innovation and collaboration between the public and private sectors. The bus trial is a partnership involving several prominent entities, including Al-Majdouie-Hyundai, the supplier of the hydrogen-powered bus; Saudi Aramco and Air Products, who operate and supervise the hydrogen fueling station; and Abdullah Hashim Company, which provides the specialized hydrogen gas transport.
This hydrogen-powered bus trial adds to a series of innovative projects undertaken by the TGA to revolutionize the Kingdom’s transportation sector. Notably, the TGA had previously issued the first operational license for a hydrogen-powered train to the Saudi Railway Company (SAR) and launched the first public hydrogen-powered taxi in Jeddah. With this newest initiative in Al-Ahsa, the TGA continues to push the boundaries of sustainable transportation, contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s efforts under the Saudi Green Initiative to combat climate change and promote clean energy solutions.
The hydrogen-powered bus is expected to be a key component of Saudi Arabia’s green mobility vision, and the trial is expected to pave the way for further integration of hydrogen-based technologies in the country’s public transport systems. This initiative not only showcases Saudi Arabia’s leadership in environmental sustainability but also serves as a model for other nations seeking to adopt clean energy technologies in the transport sector.