The first hydrogen-methanol electric bus in Huzhou starts operating. [Photo/Huzhou News Media Center]

The No 501 intercity bus set off at 6 am on Jan 1, marking the operation of the first hydrogen-methanol electric bus in Huzhou in East China's Zhejiang province.

The eco-friendly vehicle boasts a quick 7-minute refueling time and an impressive 400-kilometer range, significantly outperforming existing pure electric buses in terms of efficiency.

Additionally, the methanol fuel used on the bus produces much less PM2.5, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide emissions than gasoline and diesel.

The introduction of the hydrogen-methanol electric bus is in line with Huzhou's green transportation initiatives, which aim to boost the new energy sector and bolster economic and energy efficiency.

In recent years, Huzhou public transport sector has championed environmentally friendly practices, prioritizing green low-carbon development and sustainability. At present, Huzhou boasts 1,088 new energy buses in total.

Moving forward, plans are for Huzhou to achieve a fleet composition of 75 percent pure electric buses, 23 percent hydrogen-methanol electric buses, and 2 percent other new energy fuel buses, consolidating the city's commitment to sustainable and efficient public transit.

Editor: Zhong Xinyi