A detailed comparison between hydrogen fuel-cell buses and battery-electric buses highlights that battery-powered models currently offer a far more economical solution for clean public transport. Studies show that over a 12–15 year lifespan, hydrogen buses cost roughly 41% more to own about €1.3 million per bus compared to €972,000 for battery-electric units.

On a per-kilometer basis, hydrogen buses run at approximately €2.28/km (around $0.84/km in global context), while battery buses operate at just €1.62/km (approximately $0.17/km)—making hydrogen roughly 2.3 to 4 times more expensive per km than battery-electric counterparts. Key drivers include higher purchase prices (about 20-30% premium), expensive hydrogen fuel (up to 70% more than charging), and costly refuelling infrastructure, which often costs $1–2 million per hydrogen station versus $50,000 for EV chargers.

However, hydrogen buses offer faster refueling times (around 10 minutes), longer range, and reliable performance across difficult terrains and extreme temperatures, traits particularly suited to long-haul routes and regions where battery range may fall short.

Experts expect cost parity between hydrogen and battery buses by around 2030, assuming production scale-up and cheaper green hydrogen. But currently, battery-electric buses remain the most efficient and practical choice for urban transit systems seeking zero-emission solutions.