Hyundai takes sustainability drive to Abu Dhabi by introducing two hydrogen-powered buses as part of the Green Bus Programme, in support of the Abu Dhabi Green Bus Programme led by the ITC, reflecting the drive of the UAE toward using clean energy solutions and accelerating the growth of the hydrogen economy across the Middle East. The collaboration between Hyundai and its UAE distributor, Juma Al Majid Company, marks a pivotal moment in sustainable mobility for the region.
The two hydrogen-powered buses—Hyundai’s Elec City Fuel Cell and Universe Fuel Cell—are strategically deployed on city and regional routes to evaluate their performance under the UAE’s unique environmental conditions. The Elec City FC is working under City Route 65, but the Universe FC operates on Regional Route 160. This project will be working until the end of 2025 and will provide the ITC with a chance to analyze the feasibility of hydrogen and electric technologies in public transport. It will act as a foundation for more such solutions in the UAE and will pave the way towards a greener future.
More than just a technological trial, the Green Bus Programme has much to do with the Emirati skills in developing advanced hydrogen and electric vehicle technologies. Specialized training programs make it possible to equip local professionals with practical experience and expertise in the management and operation of the cutting-edge bus technologies. Green technology blended with local talent, the program ensures sustainable self-sufficiency of the ecosystem of public transport innovation in the UAE.
Suliman Al Zaben, Director, Hyundai UAE, said, “We are proud to embark on this transformative journey with ITC towards sustainable and innovative transportation solutions. The delivery of these advanced hydrogen-powered buses to ITC marks a new chapter in our commitment to promoting clean energy and pioneering technologies in the region.”
This initiative aligns seamlessly with Hyundai’s broader vision of establishing a hydrogen economy in the Middle East. The automaker has a strong history of launching hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the Emirates, and this program builds on that legacy. By collaborating with global manufacturers and leveraging innovative green technologies, Hyundai reinforces its dedication to a cleaner, more sustainable future for the region.
In the broader context of global sustainability efforts, the Abu Dhabi Mobility Green Bus Programme is one that sets a benchmark in integrating hydrogen-powered vehicles into public transport systems. This program demonstrates how government agencies, international manufacturers, and local talent can work together to address environmental challenges while promoting economic growth.
The Green Bus Programme further helps the UAE in the quest to reduce carbon emissions and to increase energy efficiency in transport. With the rest of the world working towards cleaner sources of energy, Abu Dhabi proactively takes the lead with its sustainable mobility strategy. The program not only works as a model for other regions but also serves to show the commitment of the UAE towards achieving its environmental goals.
By the end of 2025, the insights gained and data collected through this program will likely drive greater hydrogen and electric technologies throughout the UAE and more extensively in the region. The success of this initiative would mark a step closer toward making public transportation in the region both sustainable and innovative.