Madrid to replace 1000 cabs with hydrogen fuel cell taxis.
The FPTM, the main independent and non-profit association within the taxi sector in the Community of Madrid, has confirmed its commitment to green hydrogen (generated with renewable energy) as a sustainable and viable alternative that will allow its fleet to be decarbonized, contributing to a better air quality in cities.
Their main objective is the gradual and progressive replacement of some 1,000 combustion taxis by hydrogen models by 2026, a goal for which they will have more than 100 million euros.
This project will allow Madrid taxi drivers to use fuel cell vehicles, whose mode of operation is exactly the same as that of combustion models, but which has numerous environmental and economic benefits.
Madrid to Replace 1000 Cabs With Hydrogen Fuel Cell Taxis
The project that the association has in mind, known as “Taxi-as-a-service”, has set the goal of 2026 for the entry into service of these 1000 hydrogen taxis, although the first models could be in operation in 2022 . the investment of 100 million euros includes both fleet vehicles and their charging infrastructure, known as “hidrogeneras.”
In addition, the FPTM wants to help Madrid become one of the leading cities in Europe in terms of sustainable public transport. In addition to the federation itself, the project has partners such as Madrileña Red de Gas, Toyota España and Fotowatio Renewable Ventures, among others.
The Madrileña Red de Gas and Fotowatio Renewable Ventures companies will be in charge of the development and implementation of the infrastructure for the production and supply of renewable hydrogen.
Regarding the mobile fleet of hydrogen taxis, Toyota Spain will be the vehicle supplier, specifically its second generation Toyota Mirai sedan , which recently managed to travel 1003 km on a single hydrogen charge. Its great autonomy and short refueling time will not force taxi drivers to change their routines or the way they work.
The renewable hydrogen supply will come from a 10MW electrolysis hydrogen generator, which will be powered by a 20MW solar plant. These two projects will be located in the Community of Madrid and will allow their expansion if demand increases significantly.
Hydrogen, although slower than batteries, is also experiencing significant growth, since more and more brands have hydrogen models in their range, especially within the transport and distribution sector. Recently, the Stellantis group has presented the hydrogen Opel Vivaro and the Citroën ë-Jumpy with fuel cell.
The Madrid Professional Taxi Federation and its strong commitment to green hydrogen, June 4, 2021