Brussels, Belgium – In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable urban transportation, Hype, the world’s largest operator of hydrogen taxis, has announced the launch of its newest service in the heart of Brussels.
This expansion marks the first step in the Paris-based company’s ambitious plans to introduce zero-emission vehicle fleets across southwest Europe.
By the end of this year, Hype aims to have over 1,500 fuel-cell taxis and “several hundred” battery-electric taxis operational in Paris, where it has been a prominent player for more than eight years.
The company’s commitment extends beyond just providing transportation; it also includes establishing green infrastructure to support its eco-friendly fleet.
Six green-hydrogen refuelling stations are set to dot the landscape in and around the French capital by year’s end, with similar infrastructure slated for Brussels.
While specific numbers for hydrogen taxis and filling station plans in the Belgian capital have yet to be disclosed, Hype has revealed that its Brussels venture will include hydrogen taxis specially adapted for wheelchair users.
The fleet will feature Peugeot e-Expert and Citroรซn รซ-Jumpy fuel-cell vans, modified to accommodate six passengers or five passengers with one in a wheelchair.
Additionally, Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo fuel-cell cars will be employed as taxis in Brussels. The initiative aligns with Brussels’ mandate to allow only zero-emission taxis on its streets starting from January 1, 2025.
Hype’s ambitious roadmap doesn’t stop at Brussels. The company envisions launching hydrogen-taxi networks in 16 cities and regions by the end of 2026, forming what it calls an “Atlantic-Mediterranean hydrogen corridor.”
This network will include green hydrogen filling stations, fostering sustainable transport along key European routes.
Founder and CEO of Hype, Mathieu Gardies, expressed confidence in the venture, emphasizing the company’s commitment to providing customers with a zero-emission, high-quality taxi service at competitive prices.
“As we have done in Paris for eight years,” Gardies stated, “we will now provide our customers in Brussels with a zero-emission, high-end, safe, and responsible taxi service, at the same price as a polluting taxi.”
While fuel-cell vehicles may incur higher operating costs compared to their battery-electric counterparts due to energy conversion losses, hydrogen taxis offer a distinct advantage in refuelling times.
While a battery-electric vehicle may require an hour or more for a full charge, hydrogen taxis can be refuelled in just three minutes, offering a range of 400km. This efficiency ensures minimal downtime, enabling continuous operation around the clock.
However, challenges remain, as there are currently no hydrogen refuelling stations within Brussels itself, with the nearest one located approximately 13km away in the municipality of Zaventem.
Overcoming such hurdles will be crucial for the widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered transport. As Hype paves the way for sustainable urban mobility in Brussels and beyond, its innovative approach underscores the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy solution for the transportation sector.
With zero-emission taxis set to become a fixture on the city’s streets, Brussels is poised to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future in urban transportation.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
