Volvo’s first electric hybrid bus goes into service in Germany22 December 2014

Three of Volvo's new hybrid buses have gone into commercial service in Hamburg, Germany.

Launched last week (18 December) at an event in the city, the Volvo 7900 will run on a new route – called Innovation Route 109 – designed to test different types of engines and vehicles under everyday scheduled operations.

Alongside the 7900s, Volvo's diesel hybrid buses in both 18m articulated and 12m versions will be tested on the route, as well as its battery fuel cell buses and fuel cell buses from other manufacturers.

The 10km route runs from a new electric bus terminal near Hamburg Central Station to the underground station in Alsterdorf. The distance, says Volvo, is ideal for the hybrids, since they cover at least 7km on electric power alone.

The electric motor is powered by lithium ion batteries. Charging points are located at the start and end of the route, with a full charge taking six minutes.

Compared to a Euro 6 diesel bus on a 10km route, the Volvo 7900 is said to use 75% less fuel and cut CO2 emissions by the same amount.

The bus is planned to go into full production in early 2016.

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Volvo Group UK Ltd

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