We operate France’s first 100% hydrogen-powered bus line
Operated by our subsidiary Keolis on behalf of the municipal authority, Clermont Auvergne Métropole, this pioneering bus line runs entirely on hydrogen fuel-cell technology. Its launch on 16 June 2025 was a significant step in Keolis’ drive to help clients transition to clean, innovative solutions that promote low-carbon mobility.
A breakthrough for French public transport
With a fleet of 14 hydrogen fuel-cell-powered buses—each with a range of 300 to 400 km—Clermont-Ferrand’s 35-36 bus line is France’s first 100% hydrogen-powered route. It is also a tangible sign of the transformative shift underway in public transport. Following several months of trials, the line was officially inaugurated on 26 June 2025 by Clermont Auvergne Métropole with Keolis, the network operator.
The new buses can refuel in under 15 minutes and offer a quieter, smoother and more comfortable ride than traditional thermal vehicles, with no exhaust fumes.
tonnes
of CO2 emissions avoided annually1
A collaborative effort across public, industrial and local partners
The success of this project stems from close collaboration between public institutions, industrial players and local firms. Together with Keolis, these partners have helped position Clermont Auvergne Métropole as a leader in hydrogen mobility.
Key local contributions included: GCK Mobility, which retrofitted 7 of the fleet’s 14 vehicles; Symbio, which provided the hydrogen fuel-cell technology; and R3I, which equipped the bus depot.
Our company also partnered with leading industrial corporations like Ballard, Symbio, Toyota and Hyundai to a range of fuel-cell technologies.
France’s first 100% hydrogen-powered bus line—by the numbers
Making sustainable mobility a reality—everywhere
The launch of France’s first fully hydrogen-powered bus line in Clermont-Ferrand, reinforces Keolis’ commitment to supporting the shift to sustainable public transport. But our efforts extend beyond this milestone. In France, we’re active in Pau (since 2019), Auxerre, Dijon, Metz and Le Mans. Internationally, Keolis operates a fleet of 33 hydrogen-powered buses for Foothill Transit in California.