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US region unveils massive update to its public transportation: 'This upgrade is a game-changer'

"Should work for every community, whether in rural counties or growing cities."

"Should work for every community, whether in rural counties or growing cities."

Photo Credit: iStock

The winding, steep roads of Humboldt County, California, are getting a new form of public transport: fuel-cell buses. 

New Flyer of America (NFI) has unveiled an extended range for its Xcelsior CHARGE FC, a hydrogen fuel cell electric bus that now boasts up to 370 miles on a single refuel.

"New Flyer has been a pioneer in hydrogen fuel cell bus technology for decades and continues to push the boundaries of clean transit innovation," reported Hydrogen Central.

This is a major development towards the widespread adoption of electric vehicles across the private and public transport sectors. Range is a common point of anxiety when considering electric alternatives, yet the technology just keeps getting better. 

"With zero-emission buses, range matters, and this upgrade is a game-changer," said Chris Stoddart, president of NFI's North American Bus and Coach sector, per Hydrogen Central.

This innovation places hydrogen-powered transit squarely at the center of clean, efficient urban travel — even in hilly, more remote areas like Humboldt County — offering a real alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, which contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and urban pollution.

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Unlike gas-powered vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles emit only water vapor. Not only does this slash emissions, but it also improves daily life by reducing air and noise pollution

Additional benefits for riders and city denizens include a smoother, quieter experience. EV buses are so quiet, some national parks have introduced them not only to cut pollution, but to improve their birdwatching and wildlife sightseeing tours. These vehicles are less likely to scare off animals or disrupt the experience of natural wonders. 

One major incentive for city governments to prioritize mobility solutions is that fuel cell vehicles cut maintenance costs, thanks to fewer moving parts and more efficient energy use. For commuters, that means efficiency and lower fares. For cities, it means major savings. 

"Mobility solutions should work for every community, whether in rural counties or growing cities," said Jennifer McNeill, vice president of sales and Marketing at NFI and Motorcoach Industries, per Hydrogen Central.

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