A HYDROGEN bus has launched in the Liverpool City Region, with the 10A from St Helens to Liverpool being the first passenger service.

The zero-emission bus set off on its first passenger journey on Monday, May 15, with the project said to have kicked off in the last couple of years.

The new buses were introduced as part of a joint venture between local councils within the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. 

What is a hydrogen bus? 

The new buses are fuelled by hydrogen, a form of fuel that is clean and only produces water. 

A hydrogen bus is a form of a zero-emission vehicle, meaning the bus doesn't contribute to air pollution and is an eco-friendly alternative to petrol or diesel-fuelled buses. 

The buses were launched as part of the city region's mission to reach net zero carbon by 2040.

What features have been added to the buses? 

The buses have accommodated residents' requests by introducing new features and improving quality and accessibility. 

The buses carry a range of features passengers said that they wanted to see on board, including wireless and USB phone charging, internet access, and reading lights above seats.

The new vehicles will also have better accessibility, with increased capacity for wheelchair users and passengers with prams. 

St Helens Star: The new buses have more space for wheelchair users or passengers with pramsThe new buses have more space for wheelchair users or passengers with prams (Image: St Helens Star)

Which services will use a hydrogen bus? 

The first passenger service of the new hydrogen bus set off on the 10A from St Helens to Liverpool service, with the aim of further zero-emission buses to be added to more routes. 

Discussions of the structure and frequency of the hydrogen buses in the city region are planned to take place later in the year.