Worldwide review of hydrogen fuel cell buses : status, opportunities, and challenges

Abstract

Hydrogen is becoming a key carbon-free energy carrier for transportation, especially for long-haul public transit due to its high energy density and fast refueling. Hydrogen fuel cell buses (FCBs) are attracting global attention. This review analyzes 153 sources to summarize FCB adoption, policies, technical and economic features, and region-specific challenges and opportunities across 13 representative areas with specific cases of both success and failure. Findings show FCBs outperform battery electric buses in certain conditions, and fuel cell technology has strong future potential. However, large-scale adoption is hindered by high costs, limited infrastructure, and social acceptance, varying by region. We recommend integrated multidisciplinary academic efforts in energy management, lifecycle analysis, multi-modal transport, and stakeholder engagement, and practical steps in policy support, regulatory standards, public education, and international cooperation. These strategies are crucial for positioning FCBs as a viable zero-emission transport solution and for advancing the hydrogen economy in diverse contexts.