Hydrogen Bicycles: The Future of Eco-Friendly Mobility in the Košice Region
About this good practice
The introduction of hydrogen bicycles in the Košice Region is part of a broader initiative to promote zero-emission mobility and support the development of a hydrogen economy. As part of pilot projects within the region's hydrogen valley, the goal is to test the feasibility, efficiency, and scalability of hydrogen-powered micro-mobility solutions.
Technology and Key Features
The ALPHA hydrogen bike is the first commercially available fuel cell e-bike, designed to offer a sustainable alternative to battery-powered electric bikes.
• Motor Power: 250 W
• Fuel Cell: 150 W PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell)
• Hydrogen Tank Capacity: 2 liters, compressed at 300 bar
• Range: Up to 145 km per refill
• Refueling Time: Less than 2 minutes
• Zero Emissions: Only water vapor is emitted
Implementation in the Košice Region
The Košice Region is testing hydrogen bicycles in various real-world conditions, including:
• Urban Mobility: Providing an eco-friendly commuting option in city centers
• Tourism & Recreation: Integrating the bikes into cycling routes and nature parks
• Public & Shared Mobility: Exploring their use in bike-sharing systems
These tests help assess the practicality, efficiency, and public reception of hydrogen bikes while supporting the region’s long-term sustainability goals.
The Košice Region aims to position itself as a leader in hydrogen mobility, demonstrating the potential of hydrogen-powered transport for cities and regions worldwide.
Resources needed
Financial resources: 8000€/per pcs.
The H₂ bicycles were acquired in April 2022.
Evidence of success
• Successful Pilot Testing – Initial trials in urban and rural areas have confirmed the bikes' reliability, and adaptability to different terrains.
• Potential for Expansion – Positive feedback from municipalities, tourists, and local businesses.
• Hydrogen bikes help promote clean mobility and reduce CO₂ emissions by over 21 kg per 100 km per bike. They support modal shift by offering a zero-emission alternative for short trips, complementing public transport in both urban and rural areas.
Potential for learning or transfer
The successful implementation of H2 bicycles in the Košice Region can be transferred to other regions and sectors aiming to adopt sustainable mobility solutions. Key areas of learning include:
• Scalability & Replication–The pilot project model can be adapted for other cities, rural areas, and tourism regions looking to enhance zero-emission mobility.
• Infrastructure Development–Lessons learned from integrating H2 refueling stations can guide the expansion of similar infrastructure in other municipalities.
• Public-Private Partnerships–Cooperation between regional authorities, technology providers, and mobility operators.
• Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning–H2 bikes can complement public transport systems and be integrated into shared mobility schemes to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
• Tourism & Eco-Friendly Transport–Regions with high tourist activity can adopt this model to promote sustainable travel options, reducing the environmental impact of visitors.