Hydrogen-Powered Transportation: The Next Wave in Sustainable Tourism

By Christopher TaylorLast Updated September 12, 2025

Photo by Daesun Kim on Unsplash

Introduction: A New Era for Tourism Transportation

Tourism is on the brink of a revolution driven by the need for sustainability and innovation. With global travel rebounding and environmental concerns rising, the industry is searching for solutions that balance growth with ecological responsibility. Hydrogen-powered transportation is emerging as a transformative technology, offering the promise of zero-emission travel, rapid refueling, and the potential to reshape how tourists move between and within destinations. This article examines the future of hydrogen-powered transportation in tourism, backed by market data, real-world case studies, and actionable steps for organizations and travelers eager to adopt this green solution.

The Growth Trajectory of Hydrogen Vehicles in Tourism

The global hydrogen fuel cell vehicle market is experiencing exponential growth. In 2025, it’s projected to reach $1.9 billion , with forecasts suggesting a leap to $21.2 billion by 2035 , reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 27% [1] . This surge is fueled by heightened investment in hydrogen infrastructure, government incentives, and expanding offerings from leading automotive manufacturers.

The hydrogen sightseeing car market -a segment directly tied to tourism-is similarly booming, expected to reach $588 million in 2025 [3] [5] . These numbers highlight the industry’s commitment to sustainable travel and the growing demand for eco-friendly experiences among tourists.

Real-World Applications: Buses, Sightseeing Cars, and More

Hydrogen-powered vehicles are already operational in tourist hotspots worldwide. In Europe, fuel cell buses are becoming increasingly common, with more than 370 in operation as of early 2023 and plans to exceed 1,200 by 2025 [4] . Cities like Bologna, Italy, have awarded major tenders for hydrogen bus fleets, and manufacturers such as Solaris, Wrightbus, and CaetanoBus are leading deployments.

Meanwhile, sightseeing vehicles-essential for guided tours and city excursions-are transitioning to hydrogen as well. Operators are piloting hydrogen sightseeing cars in major tourist destinations to offer cleaner, quieter rides and demonstrate environmental leadership [3] . These efforts serve as testbeds for broader adoption and provide valuable data on consumer preferences and operational challenges.

Key Benefits for Tourism Stakeholders

Hydrogen-powered transportation offers several compelling advantages for the tourism industry:

Zero tailpipe emissions : Hydrogen vehicles emit only water vapor, helping destinations meet sustainability goals and improve air quality.
Rapid refueling : Unlike battery-electric buses, hydrogen vehicles can be refueled in minutes, minimizing downtime and supporting high-frequency tourist routes.
Long range : Hydrogen buses and coaches can travel longer distances between refueling stops, making them ideal for excursions and intercity travel.
Quiet operation : Hydrogen fuel cells are nearly silent, enhancing the tourist experience and reducing noise pollution in sensitive areas.

For destination managers and tour operators, adopting hydrogen vehicles can attract environmentally conscious travelers, improve local reputations, and open access to green funding or incentives. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ongoing research aims to make hydrogen-powered vehicles more affordable and accessible for broader use cases, including tourism [7] .

Challenges and Practical Solutions

Despite its promise, hydrogen transportation faces hurdles that must be addressed:

Infrastructure limitations : Hydrogen refueling stations are concentrated in certain urban centers, and expansion is costly. Tour operators considering hydrogen fleets should partner with regional governments or private infrastructure firms to assess station availability and plan routes accordingly. Companies like FASTECH are actively expanding the number of hydrogen refueling stations, which is critical for the sector’s growth [2] .
Vehicle availability and cost : While major manufacturers like Honda and Toyota are launching new models, upfront costs remain higher than traditional options. However, government grants and incentives-often available at the state or national level-can offset these expenses. Prospective buyers should consult their local transportation or energy agencies for information on available grants and support programs.
Technical expertise : Operating and maintaining hydrogen vehicles requires specialized knowledge. Companies can address this by partnering with experienced hydrogen vehicle service providers and participating in manufacturer training programs.

How to Access Hydrogen Transportation Solutions

Tourist organizations and destinations interested in hydrogen-powered transportation can take the following steps:

Evaluate Demand and Feasibility : Assess current transportation needs, route distances, and passenger volumes. Consider conducting a feasibility study or engaging a consultant specializing in sustainable mobility.
Research Vehicle Options : Review offerings from established manufacturers. As of 2025, models such as the Honda CR-V e (plug-in hybrid and hydrogen) are available in North America [2] . Contact regional dealerships or manufacturers directly for demonstration vehicles and pilot programs.
Identify Funding and Incentives : Many regions provide grants or tax incentives for zero-emission vehicles. To find programs, search for “clean transportation grants” or visit your local transportation or energy department’s website. The U.S. Department of Energy is a useful starting point for U.S.-based operators. For international projects, check with relevant ministries or the European Commission for current funding opportunities.
Plan for Infrastructure : If hydrogen refueling stations are not available, consider collaborating with infrastructure providers to develop on-site refueling or mobile solutions. Companies like FASTECH offer end-to-end hydrogen infrastructure consulting and deployment [2] . For smaller operators, partnering with regional fleets may make access more feasible.
Engage in Pilot Programs : Many manufacturers and government agencies support pilot projects to test hydrogen vehicles in real-world tourism scenarios. Express interest with your local clean transportation office or directly with manufacturers.

If you cannot find a verified, accessible link for a specific grant or program, you can contact your city or regional transportation office, or search for “hydrogen mobility support” alongside your location for up-to-date details.

Alternative and Complementary Approaches

While hydrogen is a promising solution, it is not the only path to sustainable tourism transportation. Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) currently dominate the zero-emission bus market, holding over 95% market share in Europe as of 2024 [4] . Some destinations may benefit from a hybrid approach, using BEVs for shorter, urban routes and hydrogen vehicles for long-distance or high-frequency services.

For destinations without hydrogen infrastructure, investing in BEVs or working with local authorities to attract hydrogen investment may be more practical in the short term. As technology advances and costs decrease, hydrogen is expected to play a larger role in the overall transition to sustainable mobility.

Case Studies and Market Outlook

Europe is leading with ambitious hydrogen bus deployments, including the landmark Bologna project for 130 hydrogen buses by 2026 [4] . In North America, Honda’s CR-V e marks a major step in making hydrogen vehicles accessible to both tourists and residents [2] .

The long-term outlook remains very positive. By 2045, the global fuel cell electric vehicle market-including those used in tourism-is forecast to reach $90 billion [6] . As more destinations commit to net-zero goals and travelers prioritize green experiences, hydrogen-powered transportation is poised to become a hallmark of responsible tourism.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Hydrogen-powered transportation is rapidly advancing beyond prototype status, with proven applications in buses, sightseeing cars, and passenger vehicles. While challenges remain-especially around infrastructure and cost-the market’s substantial growth and the clear environmental benefits position hydrogen as a key pillar in the future of sustainable tourism. Organizations interested in adoption should conduct detailed feasibility studies, partner with vehicle and infrastructure providers, and leverage available government support. As the technology matures, early adopters will be well positioned to attract eco-conscious travelers and contribute to a cleaner, greener tourism industry.