The European bus market continues its transition towards zero-emission operations, according to Chatrou CME Solutions’ latest market report. In 2023, the total number of city buses with alternative propulsion in the 27 countries of the European Union plus the UK, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland reached 13,466 units. This significant increase of 41% compared to 2022 was mainly driven by increased demand for electric and hybrid buses.
Chatrou CME Solutions’ market analysis reveals that electric and hybrid buses accounted for most of the growth in alternative propulsion in 2023. Electric buses, in particular, increased by 53.0 per cent from 4,152 units in 2022 to 6,354 units in 2023. Similarly, hybrid buses doubled from 2,018 units in 2022 to 4,022 units in 2023.
While the demand for natural gas (CNG/LNG) buses decreased slightly, by 11.3%, the demand for hydrogen (fuel cell) buses increased significantly. In 2023, 207 hydrogen buses were registered, more than twice as many as in the previous year.
Furthermore, the electric bus market was characterised by an increasing diversification of suppliers. MAN, Solaris and Yutong ranked among the top three suppliers of electric buses, with other emerging manufacturers also having a significant presence.
The increase in electric bus adoption is also evident at the national level, with the UK having the highest number of electric buses in 2023, followed by Germany, Norway and Spain.
Finally, the adoption of hydrogen buses is steadily increasing, with more than 500 hydrogen buses currently on the road in Europe. Solaris is confirmed as the leading supplier of hydrogen buses, followed by Van Hool and Caetano.
These figures confirm a clear and promising trend towards more sustainable and zero-emission public transport in Europe, indicating a significant transition towards a cleaner and greener future for our cities.
Source:
Chatrou CME Solutions’ Latest Market Study Reports
