The joint initiative for H₂ vehicles across Europe (JIVE 1), an ambitious project aimed at supporting the deployment and operation of H₂ buses and refueling stations across Europe, has come to an end. This landmark initiative has made significant progress towards its original objectives with the deployment of 131 H₂ fuel cell buses in Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the UK, marking a significant step towards sustainable urban transport. Its sister project, JIVE 2 will continue to run until June 2025.

Co-funded by the Clean H₂ Partnership, the JIVE 1 project has achieved key milestones such as:

• Increased manufacturer participation: At the project's inception, few suppliers offered fuel cell buses. Today, multiple models from various manufacturers are available.
• Cost reduction: The target price of €650,000 for a standard 12 m bus was achieved across all sites, making fuel cell buses more economically viable.
• Double deck fuel cell buses: The world's first fleets of double deck fuel cell buses were developed and deployed.
• Zero emission performance: The buses demonstrated a consistent range of up to 500 kilometers in diverse climate conditions, proving their reliability and flexibility.
• Improved fuel efficiency: Original targets for fuel consumption were surpassed, with exceptionally low values of 6.5 kg/100 km achieved, enhancing the economic case for fuel cell technology.
• Long-term commercial arrangements: Agreements with bus and H₂ fuel suppliers were established for operations extending up to ten years.
• Expansion of operator experience: More operators now have practical experience in deploying and running fuel cell buses in regular operations.
• Extensive knowledge sharing: The project disseminated results through site visits, publications, presentations, bus user group meetings.

The JIVE projects also hosted impactful fuel cell bus roadshows across Central and Eastern Europe, touching a total of 13 countries, and a fourth roadshow is planned for Scandinavia by mid-2025. These events have raised awareness and supported the adoption of H₂ buses in an increasing number of countries.

Challenges and Future Steps Despite the project's successes, challenges such as the reliability of H₂ supplies, and refueling stations were encountered. Addressing these issues remains critical for future commercial operations.

“I am proud to say that the flagship project JIVE exceeded our initial objectives by deploying 131 H₂ fuel cell buses, demonstrating significant cost reductions, technological advancements, and environmental benefits. Thanks to the funding from the Clean H₂ Partnership, this large-scale project has greatly advanced the commercialization of fuel cell buses and promoted a more sustainable urban mobility. JIVE has also paved the way for further adoption of fuel cell buses in other European cities and serves as a successful example of the EU's leadership in achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” said Mirela Atanasiu, Head of Unit Operations and Communication, Clean H₂ Partnership.

“The JIVE 1 project has made a major contribution towards advancing Europe’s fuel cell bus sector. Many lessons have been learnt that are highly relevant for public transport authorities, operators, and others with an interest in H₂ in mobility applications. I would encourage any interested parties to take advantage of the outputs from the project. JIVE 1 has involved a major effort from a wide range of organizations and individuals, and I’d like to thank all the partners for their excellent collaboration. We are also extremely grateful to the Clean H₂ Partnership for their support, patience, and flexibility throughout,” said Michael Dolman, Partner at ERM (JIVE project coordinator).