Enhancing public transport: Novel advancements and refinements in Saudi Arabia's bus system
In a bold stride towards sustainable transportation, Saudi Arabia is developing its bus network, placing great emphasis on technological advancements in the sector. The kingdom's latest innovation comes in the form of hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, as demonstrated by Hyundai Motor Group's UNIVERSE hydrogen bus in NEOM’s Trojena region.
The mountainous Trojena, with altitudes reaching 2,080 meters and steep gradients of 24%, provided a challenging environment for the trials. These tests demonstrated the hydrogen-powered bus's performance under demanding terrain and climate conditions. The trials, conducted in partnership with NEOM’s energy subsidiary Enowa, also validated the region's first hydrogen refuelling station infrastructure, designed to support zero-emission vehicles.
The hydrogen bus operated as VIP transport in NEOM from October to December 2024, gathering operational data. The trials simulated a future route connecting NEOM's central business district with Trojena, reflecting plans for hydrogen-based public transport services. The initiative stemmed from a memorandum of understanding signed in September 2024 between Hyundai and NEOM’s Mobility sector, aiming to co-develop hydrogen mobility solutions.
This collaboration supports the creation of sustainable urban transport in NEOM, one of Saudi Arabia’s flagship smart city projects. Enowa's hydrogen refuelling station accommodates multiple vehicle types, underpinning a viable hydrogen transport infrastructure.
These advances represent a significant step in introducing smart transport systems featuring hydrogen fuel cell technology, contributing to reducing emissions and enhancing the sustainability of Saudi Arabia’s public transportation network.
Saudi Arabia is also focusing on enhancing the speed and efficiency of land and railway transportation. Electric buses, which have been integrated into the kingdom's bus network, help minimize environmental impacts and reduce fuel dependency. The aim is to connect cities and main ports in Saudi Arabia, with future transportation systems being integrated into the existing network.
By embracing hydrogen-powered and electric buses, Saudi Arabia is not only reducing carbon emissions but also promoting technological advancements in transportation, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and promote sustainable, smart transport solutions in public transit systems.
- The technological advancements in the sector of transportation, as demonstrated by the hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, are playing a significant role in enhancing the environmental-science aspects of Saudi Arabia's public transportation network.
- The integration of electric buses into the kingdom's bus network not only supports the Finance sector by reducing fuel dependency but also contributes to the Industry sector by promoting technological advancements in transportation.
- As part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals, the emphasis on Science and Technology, especially in the areas of hydrogen fuel cell and electric transportation, is vital for the development of smart, sustainable, and efficient transportation systems, including the railways.
