Demonstration of zero emission coaches and buses in long distance operations (2ZERO Partnership)

Quel est l’objet de cet appel ?

The call funds one large demonstration of zero-emission buses and coaches in long-distance passenger services, including shared charging solutions and new business models. Bus and coach providers and operators are expected to be directly involved.

Que finance cet appel ?

Scope

This Horizon Innovation Action supports large demonstrations of zero-emission buses and coaches on long-distance routes, from regional to transnational, where vehicle weight, range and charging remain obstacles.

Expected activities

• Develop affordable long-distance zero-emission mobility solutions with viable business cases, new operating models and smart fleet management.
• Test concepts and tools with the direct involvement of European bus and coach providers and operators.
• Demonstrate at least 5 coaches and buses on several routes in the EU and/or corridor segments in different Member States and/or Associated Countries, with average distances of at least 500 km in extra-urban operation.
• Cover planning, charging or refuelling schedules, passenger experience, driving time rules, cross-border trips and grid impacts.
• Develop shared charging solutions for several operators and vehicle types, including peak demand at charging stations.
• Improve interior design for comfort, safety and inclusiveness, and analyse business models and remaining legal barriers.

Expected outcomes

Integration of the demonstrations into regular long-distance passenger services, faster replication beyond the original partners, reliable operation of zero-emission coaches and buses in the EU, and better comfort and intermodality. Activities are expected to reach TRL 7-8 by the end of the project.

Qu’attend-on des propositions ?

• Funded projects are expected to report results to the 2ZERO partnership.

Quelle est la date limite ?

14 avril 2027 (160 jours)

14 April 2027 (single-stage submission). Planned opening date: 15 December 2026.