Aberdeen unveils first hydrogen taxi in Scotland

Scotland’s first hydrogen taxi is to begin a one year pilot in Aberdeen.

The Hyundai ix35 hydrogen fuel cell car was granted a private hire taxi licence by Aberdeen City Council in September and has now been handed over to Aberdeen Taxis who will run the vehicle.

The taxi will form part of the Aberdeen Region Hydrogen Strategy and Action Plan 2015-2025 which plans to trial a range of vehicles with different users across the region.

It joins a fleet of 10 buses, 14 cars (including the taxi) and four vans in the city.

The taxi was funded by Transport Scotland.

Yvonne Allan, Aberdeen City Council’s communities, housing and infrastructure convener, said: “The car, which emits only water vapour, is zero emission and can play a part in improving the air quality of our city.

“As the first city in Scotland to have its own hydrogen taxi this is an exciting opportunity for Aberdeen. Use of this vehicle as a private hire taxi will also allow citizens of Aberdeen the opportunity to travel in a hydrogen vehicle and broaden the understanding of the technology.”

Humza Yousaf, Scottish government Transport Minister, said: “I’m delighted that Scotland’s first hydrogen taxi will be transporting customers in Aberdeen and showcasing the benefits that ultra-low emission hydrogen vehicles can bring.

“Hydrogen fuelled vehicles play an important role in improving air quality and complements our vision for electric vehicles. This announcement reflects our ambitions through the Programme for Government to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032.”

Chris Douglas, director of Aberdeen Taxis, said: “Aberdeen Taxis have always been dedicated to embracing the newest technology and, alongside the hydrogen taxi, have developed a number of environmentally friendly projects including electric taxis and mobile booking apps.

“We believe the smoothness and quietness of the hydrogen vehicle will be appreciated by not only drivers but also our passengers. We also believe that the environmental benefits of running pure hydrogen and electric vehicles will make a real difference for the people of Aberdeen.”