The eCitaro fuel cell offers a combination of zero-emissions operation, extensive range, and high passenger capacity. The articulated bus variant, available from June, can travel up to 350 kilometers without the need for recharging and can accommodate up to 128 passengers. With its exceptional performance, the eCitaro fuel cell seamlessly replaces conventional combustion engine buses and offers a viable solution for transport operators with existing battery-electric fleets that aim to cover long routes without additional recharging or bus deployment.
The eCitaro fuel cell utilizes a battery-electric drive system with NMC 3 high-performance batteries, complemented by a fuel cell with a 60 kW output. This fuel cell acts as a hydrogen generator, extending the bus's range. This intelligent combination allows for highly economical operation, as grid electricity is generally more cost-effective than green hydrogen. The advanced electronic control system optimally manages the interplay between battery power and fuel cell operation. Notably, the eCitaro fuel cell excels at efficiently storing energy recovered during braking through recuperation, thanks to its large battery capacity of up to 392 kWh in the articulated bus variant.
To ensure the eCitaro's reliability and functionality, extensive endurance and functional tests were conducted, with particular emphasis on the fuel cell and hydrogen system. The hydrogen tanks underwent rigorous testing for fire resistance, impact resistance, and temperature resistance, meeting the stringent UN ECE R 134 standards. Furthermore, all components, including the fastening system on the roof, were subjected to vibration and sled tests to simulate real-world impact scenarios. The eCitaro's thermal management system, which optimizes heat input from the fuel cell, underwent comprehensive laboratory and practical tests in extreme hot and cold conditions. The eCitaro fuel cell successfully passed all tests, ensuring its readiness for series production.
Source: Daimler Truck