#Japan #Fukuoka #Hydrogen Fuel Cell #BRT Hikoboshi Line

BRT Hikoboshi Line Concludes Hydrogen Fuel Cell Bus Trials

In a noteworthy development for sustainable transport in the region, the BRT Hikoboshi Line, known as the Hita-Hikosan Line BRT, will officially end its hydrogen fuel cell (FC) bus trials on March 31, 2026. This initiative is a collaboration involving Fukuoka Prefecture, Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies (CJPT), and Kyushu Railway Company (JR Kyushu), aimed at promoting eco-friendly mobility solutions.

The partnership started with a cooperation agreement signed in December 2022, focused on advancing commercial FC mobility in the pursuit of a hydrogen society. Over the past two years, from November 2023, the involved parties have been actively trialing the prototype FC mini-buses to assess their viability for regional transport.

To celebrate the conclusion of these trials, a special event will be held featuring the final runs of the FC mini-bus. This event is free to the public and does not require prior registration, making it accessible for everyone who wishes to join.

Event Details

• - Date: March 1, 2026
• - Time: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
• - Location: Oak Hall Parking Lot No. 2, 952 Shō, Soeda-machi, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka
• - Admission: Free (No registration required)
• - Activities:

- Unveiling of the final run's special vehicle design
- Opportunity to tour the FC mini-bus
- Distribution of limited-edition novelties (while supplies last)

Additionally, the event will also feature a concert entitled “Three Composers and Akira Miyagawa” taking place at the Oak Hall that same day.

Last Run Operations

The last operational phase for the FC mini-bus, decorated in a special design to express gratitude to the local community, will occur from March 3 to March 31, 2026. Passengers who ride the bus during this period will be treated to exclusive perks, including novelty gifts that are only available during this time.

• - Operating Dates: March 3, 2026 – March 31, 2026
• - Passenger Perks: Limited edition “BRT Hikoboshi Card” will be distributed.

- Each passenger can only receive one card per ride.
- Passengers wishing to obtain the card should request it from the driver upon exiting the bus.
- Availability is limited to one card per person for each ride.

FC Mini-Bus Specifications

The hydrogen fuel cell mini-bus used in the trials is a Toyota FC Coaster, seating up to 14 passengers, with a total capacity of 20 when including standing room.
Specifications:

• - Length: 6,990 mm
• - Width: 2,120 mm
• - Height: 2,620 mm

This vehicle utilizes the second generation of the FCEV “MIRAI” FC system, achieving zero CO2 emissions during operation, thus demonstrating high environmental performance. This project marks an essential step towards integrating hydrogen mobility into regular public transport systems, highlighting the move towards a sustainable and green future.

The conclusion of the FC mini-bus trials symbolizes a significant milestone in Fukuoka's transportation landscape and emphasizes the ongoing commitment to eco-friendly technologies. Community members are encouraged to participate in these final events to commemorate the innovative journey of the BRT Hikoboshi Line.