RTC Unveils First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses in Nevada

The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) has introduced two hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to its fleet, the first to be operational statewide. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV); Rep. Susie Lee (D-NV); Nevada Senate President Pro Tempore Pat Spearman, RTC Chair and Clark County Commissioner ­Justin Jones; and MJ Maynard, RTC CEO and incoming APTA vice chair, were present at the unveiling.

“We are extremely grateful to our federal delegation for securing funding for these two hydrogen fuel cell electric buses,” said Maynard. “We have long committed to investment in innovative transit technology to reduce our emissions footprint here in Southern Nevada. This technology, which is new to Southern Nevada, helps address our sustainability goal, including moving toward a zero-emissions fleet.”

The new buses were manufactured by New Flyer and feature fuel cell technology by Ballard. The hydrogen for the first two vehicles is provided by Air Products. Hydrogen fuel cells do not release greenhouse gases and create little to no noise while the bus is idle and in motion. Fuel cell vehicles can be fueled in less than fifteen minutes and can operate for longer periods of time, which will support the RTC’s operating routes.

“I launched my Innovation State Initiative to bring new jobs to Nevada and promote emerging clean energy technologies just like these new hydrogen fuel cell electric buses,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “These buses are easier to maintain, quieter, and help us combat climate change. I was proud to work with RTC of Southern Nevada to help secure funding to get these new buses on the streets.”

Seven additional 60-foot, hydrogen fuel cell buses have been ordered and will be delivered to Southern Nevada in the fall of 2024. The vehicles were funded with a $3.8-million Low or No Emission Grant from FTA. The grant also provides funding to train staff to maintain and operate the new technology.

“As Southern Nevada steers towards a greener future, embracing sustainable transportation options is a responsible environmental choice that drives our community forward,” said Commissioner Jones. “By investing in sustainable technology, we’re creating green-collar jobs that benefit both our environment and our economy.”