Türkiye’s hydrogen, autonomous technologies draw global attention
Karsan delegation and an e-Ata 12 Hydrogen bus, during launch of Hydrogen Valley, in Luxembourg, June 17, 2024. (Photo by Karsan)
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global shift towards eco-friendly public transportation has taken center stage. The adoption of electric and hydrogen fuel systems is on the rise, with autonomous public transport vehicles now navigating pre-determined routes in European cities. Amid this trend, Turkish company Karsan has emerged as a key player, capturing international interest with its locally engineered vehicles.
Having secured its position among the most preferred brands globally, particularly in North America and Japan, Karsan recently showcased its models at the opening of the Luxembourg Hydrogen Valley (LuxHyVal). The event, attended by the European Union delegation, government and municipal representatives, executives from Sales Lentz and Karsan, and numerous media personnel, saw significant interest in the e-ATA HYDROGEN model. Leading the electric bus market in Luxembourg, Karsan is also the top seller of electric autonomous public transport vehicles in Europe.
Speaking at the event’s opening, Karsan CEO Okan Bas stated, “LuxHyVal aims to popularize green hydrogen initiatives across the entire value chain from local production to usage, including storage and distribution, and to connect with existing or planned infrastructures. As Karsan, we are delighted to be a partner in the use of eco-friendly hydrogen in mobility.”
Goal: Converting 10% of public transport to hydrogen technology
Bas also highlighted that Karsan is the only brand offering three different technologies –electric, hydrogen, and autonomous – together. He added, “As Karsan, we are proud to support this project, which aims to make 10% of LuxHyVal’s public transport fleet hydrogen-powered. Last year in Luxembourg, our e-ATAK model led the electric bus market with a 38% share. Hydrogen-fueled vehicles are seen as a significant advantage in combating global warming and climate change. Therefore, the European Union is providing substantial policies and support to encourage the adoption of zero-emission vehicles. With our e-Ata Hydrogen and its best-in-class features, we aim to lead this transformation.”
