Electric Articulated Buses Being Tested in Sweden

In June, regular traffic with electrified buses will expand in Gothenburg. Two prototype all-electric articulated buses will be tested on part of route 16, which has frequent departures and carries a large number of passengers. The trial is being run within the framework of ElectriCity, which since 2015 has been running electrified buses in demo traffic on route 55 in Gothenburg.

“By expanding the demonstration arena and testing high-capacity electric articulated buses on a route that carries many passengers, we can give more people in Gothenburg an attractive alternative to taking their own cars. The new all-electric buses are far quieter than diesel buses, they emit absolutely no exhaust gases, and they are designed for smooth and comfortable travel. They will also form an important basis for decisions about future investments in electric buses,” says Lars Holmin, chairman of public transport company Västtrafik.

The two new additions that will become operational this summer are 18.7 metre long articulated buses with space for up to 135 passengers, of whom 38 seated. The buses feature four double doors, large unobstructed floor surfaces and ergonomically designed bars, grab-handles and backrests for standing passengers. The designers also focused on creating a colour-matched interior with suitable lighting. The idea is that a large number of passengers will be able to quickly board and exit the bus at every stop. On board there is free wi-fi, charging points for mobile phones, and enhanced traffic information.

In addition to the vehicles themselves, a lot of attention has been spent on developing information on board the buses, with new types of screens both inside and outside being tested. Moreover, the bus stops at Eriksbergstorget and Lindholmen will have added weather protection. At two bus stops, Eriksbergstorget and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, there will be charging stations. These stations are based on the common OppCharge system interface, so they can also be used by electric buses from other manufacturers.

Between 14 and 21 June, the new electric buses will operate on the “Volvo Ocean Race route” between Nordstan and Frihamnen in the city centre in conjunction with the various activities linked to the race. From 25 June the buses will operate on route 16, between Eriksbergstorget and Nordstan in the mornings and evenings, and between Eriksbergstorget and Sahlgrenska hospital during the day. Operation will be handled by Transdev, which already provides bus services on the regular route 16.

“Route 16 is one of the lines that transports most passengers in Gothenburg, giving us the opportunity to truly put the technology to the test. For instance, the batteries are dimensioned so the buses can run without needing a recharging break during peak hours. Instead, recharging will take place when there is less traffic, either at one of the two charging stations now being built on the route or when the buses return to the depot,” says Håkan Agnevall, President Volvo Buses.

He added: “Electric buses are quiet and emission-free, and create new opportunities for urban planning. It feels particularly good to be able to help reduce the noise level at Sahlgrenska hospital.”