The Polish manufacturer Solaris Bus & Coach introduced a new model in September 2022. It is the articulated Urbino 18 Hydrogen. This innovative vehicle improves European urban mobility. The bus offers zero emissions and low noise levels. It provides greatest comfort for passengers. The design comes from years of engineering experience. It meets the eco-friendly needs of modern megacities.
Company background
Solaris started in 1996 in Bolechów, Poland. Krzysztof and Solange Olszewski founded the company with 36 employees. It grew into a recognized innovator in public transport. Its portfolio expanded from diesel buses to electric and hydrogen solutions. After joining CAF Group, Solaris gained access to international markets and new resources for growth.
How the system works?
The heart of the Urbino 18 Hydrogen is the hydrogen fuel cell. This advanced system generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Its operation consists of three main stages:
- Input. Hydrogen is stored in lightweight high-pressure tanks.
- Reaction. Inside the fuel cell, hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the air. This process produces electricity, water, and heat.
- Power Supply. The generated electricity powers the electric motor and the vehicle’s onboard systems.
The bus produces zero harmful emissions. It is well suited for cities working to reduce air pollution. и идеален за градове, които искат да намалят замърсяването на въздуха.
Technical specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Passenger capacity | Up to 138, depending on configuration |
| Battery | 60 kWh – stores recovered energy and supports acceleration |
| Range | Up to 350 km in all weather conditions |
| Refueling time | Approximately 20 minutes |
| Fuel cell | Supplies electricity to the drivetrain |
| Emissions | It creates zero emissions. The only byproduct is water vapor. |
Environmental and social impact
The bus runs with minimal noise. This reduces noise pollution in urban areas. Clean operation improves air quality. Both factors make public transport more appealing than private cars.
Maintenance and operating costs
Fuel cell vehicles have fewer mechanical parts. This reduces maintenance complexity. There is no internal combustion engine. Oil changes and fuel filters are not required. The electric motor and fuel cell components wear at a lower rate. The initial investment is higher, but long-term fuel and service costs are lower.
Funding and incentives
The EU funds zero-emission vehicles through Horizon Europe and the Connecting Europe Facility. Both programs cover vehicle purchases and infrastructure development. In Bulgaria, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan offers subsidies for municipalities that adopt similar solutions. Operators also receive reduced taxes and fees.
Outlook for Bulgaria
In early 2025, the Sofia Municipality launched tests with its first hydrogen vehicles. The initiative targets carbon emission reductions. It also covers rail transport upgrades and industrial deliveries. Bloomberg TV Bulgaria has covered the topic in detail.
European context
The Urbino 18 Hydrogen is adaptable, efficient, and cost-effective. These qualities make it a strong fit for major European cities. It reflects the direction public transport is taking — toward clean energy and smart technology.
Barriers to adoption
Several challenges remain. High upfront costs and refueling station construction are significant expenses for operators and municipalities. Charging infrastructure is limited in some regions. Staff training is required to ensure safe and effective operation.
The road ahead
Hydrogen and electric vehicle adoption is growing across Europe. Vehicles like the Urbino 18 will become central to urban transport networks. For Solaris, this bus advances a clear vision: clean, quiet, and reliable public transport that works with the environment, not against it.
This article was updated on August 17, 2025.
