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

Di cosa tratta questo bando?

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.

Cosa finanzia questo bando?

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.

Cosa ci si aspetta dalle proposte?

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

Quando scade il bando?

14 aprile 2027 (159 giorni)

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