Ballard Power Systems recently received a follow-on purchase order from New Flyer for 20 fuel cell modules to power 20 New Flyer Xcelsior model Fuel Cell Electric Buses (FCEBs) planned for Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) in Oakland. Ballard plans to deliver all the modules to New Flyer this year and deployment of the New Flyer buses will bring the total number of Ballard-powered FCEBs operated by AC Transit to 31.

The orders brings the number of New Flyer FCEBs that Ballard is powering in California to 45 and underpins the importance of its long-standing partnership with North America’s leading bus manufacturer, says Rob Campbell, Ballard chief commercial officer.

“The FCEB market is gaining momentum and is expected to continue on a positive growth path in the U.S. and globally. Ballard intends to continue leading with proven and reliable fuel cell products that offer superior total cost of ownership for bus fleet operators along with the benefits of fuel cell buses that deliver route flexibility, rapid refueling and long range zero-emission performance,” Campbell says.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has passed an Innovative Clean Transit regulation requiring a growing proportion of buses purchased by transit agencies in the state to be zero-emission by 2040.