SamTrans Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Bus (FCEB) at Oakland's Jack London Square
The San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) is making a bold leap toward sustainability with its growing investment in hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEBs). In early January, the first of 10 hydrogen buses is set to begin service, with the full fleet expected to be operational by the end of February. Departments within SamTrans Operations Division have been working diligently throughout the month of December preparing for initial launch of the new FCEB fleet.
Earlier this year, SamTrans made international headlines with its record-breaking order of 108 New Flyer FCEBs, the largest purchase of its kind in North America. These buses are slated to arrive in phases starting late next year through early 2027.
This shift to hydrogen technology at SamTrans is supported by $34.5 million in funding from the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES), a public-private initiative advancing hydrogen infrastructure across California. The funding will help SamTrans cover costs for buses, fueling and maintenance facilities, and workforce training.
While hydrogen buses take center stage, SamTrans is also expanding its fleet of battery-electric buses (BEBs). The agency currently operates 17 BEBs, with 20 more expected to go online in the coming months. Together, the hydrogen and electric bus initiatives represent SamTrans’ dual approach to achieving zero-emission transportation by 2034.
California’s commitment to clean transit was celebrated in August when Gov. Gavin Newsom, U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, and other federal, state, and local leaders gathered in Oakland to tour a hydrogen facility and recognize ARCHES’ funding efforts.
Gov. Gavin Newsom greeting SamTrans Board Chair Marina Fraser and SamTrans General Manager/CEO April Chan at the Jack London Square Ferry Terminal in Oakland.
SamTrans’ investments in hydrogen and electric technologies highlight its leadership in sustainable transit, aligning with California’s ambitious climate goals and paving the way for cleaner, greener communities.