California: Victor Valley Transit Authority unveils hydrogen buses and fuelling station

The Victor Valley Transit Authority has introduced 13 hydrogen fuel cell buses and an interim hydrogen fuelling station in California’s High Desert. The vehicles and infrastructure were presented during a public event attended by local, regional and state representatives as well as industry partners.

Vvta flyer california electric buses fcev hydrogen cropped — Image: VVTA

The hydrogen programme builds on earlier clean transport initiatives. VVTA has operated buses powered by renewable natural gas for decades and introduced battery-electric buses in 2019. Chief Maintenance Officer Dustin Strandberg described the move towards hydrogen as a logical progression, saying that “transitioning to hydrogen fuel cell technology is a natural next step, one that aligns with our operational needs, our desert environment, and our long-term vision for a more sustainable future.”

Though the VVTA does not mention the make and model of the buses, images show New Flyer’s Xcelsior Charge FC. The H2 bus can go up to 370 miles (around 600 kilometres) on a single refuelling, according to New Flyer. It offers room for more than 80 passengers – 40 seated and 42 standing, as well as two wheelchair locations. The fuel cell is provided by Ballard Power Systems.

The interim fuelling station enables the initial operation of the hydrogen fleet while longer-term infrastructure planning continues. VVTA stated that the project has been supported by funding and cooperation from a range of federal, state and regional bodies, alongside vehicle, technology and operations partners.

“This is an exciting and important day for our agency and our region,” said James Noble, Chair of the VVTA Board of Directors. “What we are celebrating today represents years of collaboration, planning, and partnership. It reflects VVTA’s commitment to innovation and our role as a regional leader in moving the High Desert toward a cleaner, more connected future that benefits our riders and our communities.”

VVTA CEO Nancie Goff emphasised the wider significance of the launch. “By introducing 13 hydrogen fuel cell buses and an interim fuelling station, VVTA is advancing zero-emission transit, cleaner air, and a more sustainable future,” she said. “This milestone, along with our new VVTA branding, reflects the power of strong partnerships and our commitment to investing wisely today for generations to come.”

Alongside the technical developments, VVTA formally rolled out its new visual identity. The shift from “Victor Valley Transit” to the acronym VVTA is intended to strengthen regional recognition and present a clearer, more consistent image. The authority said the new branding reflects progress and forward motion, mirroring its investments in clean mobility technologies.

vvta.org