Lifecycle CO2 analysis for urban emission reduction of hydrogen-fuelled and battery electric buses in the European Union current and future energetic scenarios

As the need to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and dependence on fossil fuels grows, new vehicle concepts are emerging as sustainable solutions for urban mobility. Beyond evaluating tailpipe emissions, indirect emissions associated with energy and hydrogen production, as vehicle manufacturing must be accounted, offering a holistic Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) perspective. This study compares Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs), Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (H2ICEVs), and hybrid H2ICEVs, analyzing energy efficiency and GHG emissions in urban environment across the European Union. Future scenarios (2030, 2050) are examined as well, with evolving energy mixes and manufacturing impacts. Findings show BEVs as the most efficient configuration with the lowest GHG emissions in 2024, while FCVs become the best option in future scenarios due to greener hydrogen production and improved manufacturing. This study emphasizes the need for tailored strategies to achieve sustainable urban mobility, providing insights for policymakers and stakeholders.