HyMove bus test runs

The HyMove bus, which was officially presented last year, has started making test runs in order to prepare for use in Connexxion's normal timetable. The test runs are taking place in Apeldoorn.

The HyMove bus, which was officially presented last year, has started making test runs in order to prepare for use in Connexxion's normal timetable. The test runs are taking place in Apeldoorn, so as to remain near e-Traction, the company that supplied the drive for the HyMove bus and integrated all the systems. The hydrogen-powered bus will refuel at Kiwa-Gastec during the test runs. A modified refuelling facility has been installed there temporarily for the testing and certification of the entire hydrogen-electric system in the bus. Refuelling in Apeldoorn will be at a lower pressure than at the hydrogen filling station in Arnhem, where refuelling is carried out at a pressure of 450 bar. A pressure of 160 bar is sufficient for making the test runs.

The bus was first made winter-proof before the test runs started. A number of improvements were made in and on the bus as a result of the period of severe frost in December. These included measures to prevent the pneumatic pipework in the bus from freezing and the installation of safety valves in the hydrogen system that is connected to the fuel cell control system. The fuel cell's cooling system was also improved. The first acceptance test by Connexxion, which will introduce the bus into its normal timetable in March, was performed in February. Thanks to Connexxion's experience with this type of vehicle, it was possible to incorporate even more technical improvements. For example, a polyester cap was fitted over the cylinders on the bus roof to protect the tanks against the sun. All modifications will have been completed around 1 March. The hydrogen-powered bus will be seen in Arnhem again on about 11 March.