Volvo Bus has revealed that its new plug-in hybrid buses will begin field tests in Gothenburg, Sweden this month (May 2013).
These hybrids are based on the Volvo 7900 Hybrid. They enable recharging from electricity grids via a collector installed on the roof.
The installation of a larger battery pack also makes it possible to drive up to 7km at a time on electric power-only. The batteries are charged at the bus terminus for between six and 10 minutes.
Having sold more than 1,000 standard hybrid vehicles, the company is exploring other ways of using the technology that will, it believes, reduce diesel consumption by 75%, compared with conventional bus drivelines.
"In recent years, sales of Volvo hybrid buses have tripled for each year and we believe the market for electro-mobility will continue to expand rapidly," states Håkan Karlsson, president of Volvo Bus.
"Accordingly, the Volvo Group is investing in this area, making it possible for cities to realise their visions of more eco-friendly and attractive transportation."
The purpose of the field test is to study and verify the anticipated reductions in energy consumption and emissions, as well as to compile information from drivers, passengers and residents.
Volvo Buses also expects to be able to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide by up to 90% by using biodiesel instead of standard, fossil-derived diesel oil in the combustion engine itself.
