With zero emissions, electric bi-articulated vehicles are ideal for cities that have or intend to implement BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) systems and want to further advance the efficiency and decarbonization of passenger transport.
The bi-articulated chassis is built on the flexible BZR-electromobility platform, providing it with high efficiency in mass transport. With 28-meter bodies, the transport capacity is up to 250 passengers.
“A BRT with these buses will be able to carry the same number of passengers as a subway system, but with infinitely lower implementation and operating costs, as well as zero emissions,” says André Marques, President of Volvo Buses Latin America.
A robust chassis with high capacity
The electric bi-articulated bus preserves the traditional characteristics of its diesel predecessor. The same extremely robust and high-capacity chassis frame, axles and suspension, but now with Volvo’s electric powertrain.
“We are combining the time-honored mechanical basis of our diesel bi-articulated buses with the latest Volvo electric bus technology,” says Alexandre Selski, Electromobility Director of Volvo Buses Latin America.
The electric bi-articulated bus is equipped with two 200kW electric motors, totaling 400kW, which is the equivalent of 540hp. It also has a two-speed automated gearbox, based on the proven Volvo I-Shift transmission. This fine-tuned set ensures enhanced ability to overcome slopes, less vibration, and consequently better performance and longer life of the bus, ensuring lower maintenance costs.
Fully charged within 2-4 hours
The total charging time varies between 2-4 hours. In addition, there is the option of installing a charger on the roof of the body for quick charging at BRT terminals, throughout daily journeys.
The electrification of the bi-articulated bus is a new contribution from Volvo Buses to the evolution of BRT systems, with a focus on eliminating emissions in mass transport.
“From the very beginning, the Volvo bi-articulated bus has always brought high efficiency, transporting more passengers with fewer emissions. Now, with 100% electric vehicles, we are going to completely zero greenhouse gases,” says Alexandre Selski.
The continued evolution of a winning concept
The concept of bi-articulated buses was introduced by Volvo Buses more than 30 years ago, as an evolution of the traditional articulated bus. Since then, dozens of cities in Latin America have been using the combination of these two types of vehicles to transport large numbers of passengers quickly and safely, with significant gains in quality of life in daily commutes.
At the time of its commercial launch, the electric bi-articulated bus will be produced at Volvo’s industrial complex in Curitiba and can be exported to several countries where there are cities with BRT systems.
“With the validation of the electric version of our bi-articulated vehicle, we are strengthening our commitment to solutions for 100% safer, more efficient and sustainable transport for people,” concludes André Marques.
