On December 23, 2024, at approximately 11:10 AM, a hydrogen-powered city bus exploded at a refueling station in Mokhaeng-dong, Chungju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do, South Korea. The explosion occurred shortly after the bus had completed refueling and the driver attempted to start the engine. The blast resulted in significant damage to the rear of the bus and caused injuries to three individuals present at the scene.
Date
Location
Industry
Substance
Cause
The exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Initial reports suggest that the hydrogen fuel cell “stack,” located at the lower rear of the bus and responsible for converting hydrogen into electric energy, may have malfunctioned, leading to the incident.
Consequence
- Severe damage to the hydrogen-powered bus, particularly the rear section.
- Injuries to three individuals: a charging station employee, the bus driver, and another person present at the scene. All three were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Temporary suspension of all 18 hydrogen-powered buses operating in Chungju for safety inspections.
Injuries
3
Fatalities
None reported.
Lessons Learned
Although these lessons haven’t been raised from an official investigation report, the following lessons can be taken on-board from the incident:
- Comprehensive Vehicle Maintenance: Regular and thorough inspections of hydrogen fuel cell components are essential to identify and address potential malfunctions before they lead to hazardous situations.
- Enhanced Safety Protocols at Refueling Stations: Implement stringent safety measures and emergency response plans at hydrogen refueling stations to mitigate risks associated with hydrogen fueling operations.
Picture showing the aftermath of a hydrogen-powered bus explosion at a refueling station in Chungju, South Korea, highlighting the importance of stringent safety measures in hydrogen fuel applications.
Image source: Korea Times
Analysis
The incident occurred at approximately 11:10 AM on December 23, 2024, when a hydrogen-powered city bus, having just completed refueling at a station in Mokhaeng-dong, Chungju-si, exploded as the driver attempted to start the engine. The explosion originated from the rear section of the bus, causing substantial damage to the vehicle and injuring three individuals: a charging station employee, the bus driver, and another person nearby. All three were transported to a local hospital with injuries deemed non-life-threatening. In response to the incident, Chungju city authorities suspended the operation of all 18 hydrogen-powered buses in the region to conduct comprehensive safety inspections. Investigations by relevant authorities, including the Korea Gas Safety Corporation, are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the explosion.