For the first time ever, Volvo Buses is unveiling its new electric bus in 12-metre configuration for series production. This means the company now has a complete range of electrified buses. The new Volvo 7900 Electric runs quietly and exhaust-free and is about 80 per cent more energy-efficient than a corresponding diesel bus. Sales get under way in 2016.
At the public-transport fair in Milan earlier this year, Volvo Buses unveiled one of the electric concept buses that have been in operation in Gothenburg since the summer. Now the company is taking a major step forward and presenting its new electric bus in commercial configuration, ready for the market.
“Today we’re passing yet another important milestone in our drive for future sustainable transport and a cleaner, quieter urban environment. We can now offer a complete product range enabling the creation of electrified bus systems. Solutions that make it possible for all cities everywhere to step into the future,” says Håkan Agnevall, President of Volvo Buses.
Quiet and exhaust-free 12-metre bus
The Volvo 7900 Electric runs quietly and without exhaust emissions, and is about 80 per cent more energy-efficient than a conventional diesel bus. Its lithium-ion batteries are charged both by the energy generated whenever the vehicle brakes, and also via the mains electricity network at the route’s end stops. Each charge via the mains takes three to six minutes*. Each minute of charging allows for 5-10 minutes of driving. The bus is designed for bus routes of 10-20 km. Opportunity charging at end stops creates an electric bus infrastructure whose route length is unaffected by battery size. The two-axle, 12-metre long bus has an aluminium body, three doors, a low floor and a bright and airy interior.
Vehicles, servicing and recharging infrastructure
The Volvo 7900 Electric will primarily be marketed as a complete, turnkey solution that encompasses financing, vehicle servicing and battery maintenance. The recharging infrastructure will also be included in the package through Volvo’s cooperation with Siemens and ABB. Together with local partners, Volvo Buses can provide workshop services. Speed setting and other Zone Management features, depots services and traffic management is offered optionally.
Comprehensive range of electrified buses
With the launch of the Volvo 7900 Electric, Volvo Buses now offers a comprehensive range of electrified buses. In addition to the latest model this range includes the Volvo 7900 Hybrid (which is also available as an articulated bus) and the Volvo 7900 Electric Hybrid. All told Volvo has sold more than 2200 electrified buses since the company’s first hybrids were introduced in 2010.
The three electric concept buses from Volvo that are in regular operation in Gothenburg are part of ElectriCity, a joint venture in which industry, society and the research fraternity work together to develop tomorrow’s sustainable public transport.
Volvo Dynamic Steering
This autumn marks the integration of Volvo’s unique steering system, Volvo Dynamic Steering, with several of Volvo’s coach models. Substantially improving directional stability, comfort and safety, the system also significantly reduces the risk of occupational injury.
“Volvo Dynamic Steering has been a feature of Volvo’s trucks since 2013, and the system is rated highly. Now we want to give our bus customers the same opportunity to benefit from improved work environment and road safety,” explains Peter Danielsson, head of vehicle features and safety at Volvo Buses.
In Europe, Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS) is being integrated into the Volvo 9500, 9700 and 9900 as well as chassis with 8 or 11 litre engines for Euro 6. The official launch took place in October at the international Busworld exhibition, in Kortrijk, Belgium.
Simplified, safer driving performance
Compensating automatically for uneven road surfaces, Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS) eliminates vibrations and steering kick, making driving significantly easier and more comfortable. When driving at low speeds, steering wheel inertia is reduced by around 75 per cent, which also makes reversing much easier. The system also facilitates steering, with the wheel automatically returning to centre when the driver’s grip is loosened somewhat. At high speeds, the bus maintains consistent direction, even on poor road surfaces.
“Fewer manual steering wheel movements and less vibration reduce the risk of wear and tear in muscles and joints, which means drivers don’t get so tired. Feeling more relaxed and able to remain focused during their whole shift, they also drive more safely.”