Gas and energy company BOC and Foton Mobility have announced a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) agreement to develop the hydrogen bus sector in Australia and New Zealand.
BOC and Foton Mobility will work together to develop operational and commercial hydrogen bus models across the supply chain including production, storage and refuelling, right through to leasing arrangements.
The partnership aims to develop pathways for scaling up hydrogen transport networks over the next decade.
BOC director for strategy and clean energy Vesna Olles said that collaboration is necessary for developing affordable models for the roll-out of hydrogen bus fleets across Australasia.
“BOC is delighted to be working with Foton Mobility to explore a variety of leasing arrangements for hydrogen buses and hydrogen refuelling stations, and demonstrating a strong business case to government and private operators interested in decarbonising their bus fleets,” said Olles.
“Transport accounts for almost one fifth of Australia’s total carbon emissions, which needs to be reduced significantly to meet net zero targets. Hydrogen buses are already widely used around the world, with proven technology and infrastructure making it a viable option for the future.”
Chief executive for Foton Mobility Neil Wang said the alignment of the two companies provides a unique opportunity to connect the pieces for a functioning hydrogen transport sector.
“From developing infrastructure, hydrogen supply and vehicle deployment, we will be able to confidently supply low emission solutions to Australia’s transport sector,” said Wang.
BOC parent company Linde has already installed 200 hydrogen refuelling stations globally.
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