The bus industry in Turkey is undergoing a profound shift towards electrification and sustainable mobility, showcased vividly at Busworld Türkiye 2024, held from May 29-31 at Istanbul Fuar Merkezi. This premier event not only highlighted the latest technological advancements but also underlined Turkey’s pivotal role in shaping the future of urban transport, writes Rajesh Rajgor.
Busworld Turkey 2024 was a resounding success, drawing a record-breaking crowd of 12,366 visitors, including 1,881 international attendees from 96 countries. Spanning 9,975 square meters, the event featured 159 exhibitors from 16 countries, showcasing a diverse array of vehicles and services. Among the highlights were 56 buses and coaches, including innovative models making their debut, such as the autonomous Otokar e-Centro and Bozankaya’s new electric bus.
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Karsan: Leading the Charge in Electric Mobility
Karsan, a prominent figure in the Turkish bus market, took center stage with its lineup of electric and hydrogen-powered buses. Among the highlights was the Autonomous e-ATAK, equipped with cutting-edge autonomous driving capabilities aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and passenger safety. The introduction of the right-hand-drive e-JEST for the Japanese market further showcased Karsan’s global vision and commitment to innovation in electric mobility. They aim to expand their global footprint by introducing their right-hand drive e-JEST minibus to the UK market by the end of the year, following successful ventures in over 23 countries with their environmentally friendly electric buses.
An exclusive media tour of Karsan’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Bursa, a day before the show opened, provided firsthand insights into Karsan’s meticulous production processes. The visit began at the Welding Division, where precision electrical resistance welding techniques are employed to manufacture chassis components. Automated processes and stringent quality control measures ensure geometric accuracy and structural integrity, crucial for the durability and performance of Karsan’s electric vehicle lineup.
Next, the tour moved to the Painting Division, where vehicles undergo a series of treatments including phosphate baths, cataphoresis, and eco-friendly paint applications. These steps not only protect against corrosion but also contribute to the vehicles’ aesthetic appeal and longevity.
The final stop was the Assembly Production Unit, where components are meticulously assembled into finished vehicles. Advanced technologies facilitate precise integration, while rigorous quality checks, including a comprehensive 2.8 km road test, ensure that each vehicle meets global standards for safety and performance. This commitment to excellence was evident throughout the tour, reinforcing Karsan’s reputation as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions.
Bozankaya: Advancing Electric Bus Technology
Bozankaya showcased its latest innovations in electric bus technology at Busworld Türkiye 2024, highlighting its role as a pioneer in sustainable transportation solutions. The company unveiled its first fully low-floor electric bus family, available with options like wheelhub driven portal axles or central electric motors, catering to diverse customer needs. With a sleek design and distinctive lighting elements, the Bozankaya electric bus impressed with its modern aesthetics and high-quality interior.
Bozankaya’s commitment to environmental stewardship and technological advancement was evident in the sleek aesthetics and advanced functionalities of their electric buses. During the event, Bozankaya also introduced a powerful 360 kW charging system, highlighting its efforts to address the climate crisis through modern, sustainable transport solutions. The company’s history, which began with component production in Germany and expanded to include electric buses and trolleybuses manufactured in Ankara, reflects its dedication to innovation and environmental responsibility.
Otokar: Innovations in Autonomous and Electric Vehicles
Otokar showcased its prowess in autonomous and electric vehicle technologies with the debut of the Autonomous e-CENTRO, equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving technology and the Digital Driver X system. This driverless vehicle promises continuous operation in all weather conditions, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency. Additionally, Otokar introduced the updated NAVIGO T bus, featuring a redesigned interior aimed at improving passenger comfort and experience.
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Otokar also presented the e-Kent C with upgraded traction battery capacity to 450 kWh, and a new supplier, CATL, emphasizing its advancements in electric vehicle technology. The Sultan Giga, a front-engined midi coach tailored for Turkish preferences, also debuted with enhanced interior features aimed at maximizing passenger comfort.
Anadolu Isuzu: Pioneering Sustainable Transport Solutions
Anadolu Isuzu unveiled its latest electric bus model, the Novo Volt, at Busworld Türkiye 2024. This electric version of the Novo model utilizes advanced Allison eGen Power technology, making it ideal for eco-friendly shuttle and school bus operations. The company’s commitment to sustainability was further underscored by its range of models including the Grand Toro and Citiport 12, designed for various urban and tourist transport needs.
The Novo Volt, featuring the Allison eGen Power 85S electric driven axle and a modified chassis for enhanced performance, offers a range of 225 km on a single charge, showcasing Isuzu’s commitment to efficient urban mobility solutions.
BMC’s Dual Offering: Procity and Neocity
BMC presented two distinct lines at Busworld Türkiye 2024, each catering to different segments of the urban transport market. The Procity line, featuring 100% electric 12-meter buses, boasts a completely renewed body, designed to provide a modern and eco-friendly solution for city transit. These buses are engineered for optimal energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, making them ideal for metropolitan areas aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
On the other hand, the Neocity line offers electric midibuses that are perfectly suited for both airport and urban routes. These midibuses are designed to navigate the specific demands of airport transportation, as well as the bustling streets of urban environments, providing flexible and efficient mobility solutions. BMC’s innovative approach in developing these two lines underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable urban transport through tailored electric vehicle solutions.
HABAŞ: Fuel Cell and Electric Innovations
HABAŞ showcased its cutting-edge Comfort City H2 fuel cell bus with an impressive 800 km range, highlighting its advancements in zero-emission transportation solutions. The fully electric Alfa Lux-e coach, boasting a range of up to 400 km, further demonstrated HABAŞ’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable mobility.
IVECO BUS: Versatile Solutions for Diverse Needs
IVECO BUS presented a versatile lineup at Busworld Türkiye, featuring models such as the E-WAY, Crossway, and Daily. These buses can be powered by diesel, biomethane, or electric engines, catering to a wide range of regional and national transport requirements. The Evadys model, known for its flexibility and efficiency, was also showcased, highlighting IVECO BUS’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Turkish Minibus Excellence
Busworld Türkiye 2024 also celebrated Turkey’s leadership in minibus design and production, featuring contributions from top manufacturers such as AYB, Aktepe, Başer Otomotiv, and many others. These companies showcased their latest mini and midi bus innovations, reinforcing Turkey’s reputation for excellence and innovation in this segment.
ABB: Setting New Standards in Electric Propulsion
ABB introduced its cutting-edge propulsion solutions at Busworld Türkiye 2024, including the AMXE250 motor and HES580 inverter. These components set new benchmarks in energy efficiency and reliability for electric buses, reflecting ABB’s commitment to advancing sustainable public transport solutions. The AMXE250 motor enhances passenger comfort with its compact design and high torque density, while the HES580 inverter minimizes energy losses and extends operational lifespan.
ZF: Advancing Safety and Connectivity Solutions
ZF showcased its AxTrax 2 LF electric axle and comprehensive ADAS solutions at Busworld Türkiye 2024. These innovations enhance safety and operational efficiency for city buses, while the SCALAR platform optimizes public transport planning through AI-based decision-making. ZF’s commitment to connectivity and safety underscores its role in shaping the future of urban mobility.
Looking Ahead to Busworld Türkiye 2026
The resounding success of Busworld Türkiye 2024 reaffirmed its status as a pivotal event in the global bus and coach industry calendar. Vincent Dewaele, General Manager of Busworld International, expressed enthusiasm about the event’s record-breaking attendance and international participation, emphasizing its role in driving industry innovation and collaboration. The next edition, scheduled for June 17-19, 2026, at Istanbul Fuar Merkezi, promises to build upon this legacy of excellence and innovation in urban transport solutions.