With a capacity of 150 passengers, it has 80% lower energy consumption than a corresponding diesel bus.
It is also available as a turnkey solution at a fixed price per km.
With the Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated, Volvo Buses is making it attractive to electrify even high-frequency bus routes with large numbers of passengers. Previously, Volvo’s electric bus was only available as a rigid 12m single-decker.
The bus was unveiled for the first time to the public at the Busworld show in Brussels on October 18–23.
To meet the specific requirements of different cities and operators, the bus has a flexible construction and can be optimised to suit varying needs.
“In order to make it as simple as possible for our customers to take the step into an electrified future, the Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated is available as a turnkey solution at a fixed, predetermined cost per kilometre.
“We ensure that the operator always has a bus ready for the road, without the need to purchase it. Servicing, repairs, battery maintenance and driver training are all included,” says Volvo Bus Corporation President Håkan Agnevall.
Volvo Buses can also take care of the entire project management, from route simulation and analysis to implementation of charging infrastructure.
Two lengths, two charging systems
The Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated is available in two lengths, 18 and 18.7 m.
The number of batteries can be varied to provide the exact energy storage capacity needed for each vehicle.
Charging can take place either via quick-charge stations along the route (OppCharge) or via the main grid when the bus is parked in the depot (Combo2/CCS).
From the performance viewpoint the Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated has been developed to provide first-class driveability even on demanding uphill gradients and it can handle a fully loaded start on a 20 degree uphill slope.
Low noise level
The Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated has been designed to boost swift passenger movement and to give passengers a quiet and comfortable ride.
The bus has four double doors, large uncluttered floor areas and ergonomically designed handrails and grab-handles, as well as Volvo-designed seats.
The cab gives the driver a commanding view of surrounding traffic and a comfortable driving position. The low noise level reduces the risk of tiredness and distraction.
A high-capacity climate unit ensures a pleasant temperature for passengers and driver alike.
The Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated can be equipped with Volvo Dynamic Steering, which significantly eases the driver’s work and reduces strain on the shoulders, arms and back.
The Volvo 7900 Electric Articulated is engineered to be able to be driven in defined zones with particularly strict demands concerning noise, exhaust emissions and speed, such as zero-emission zones in urban centres and indoor bus stops.
To enhance safety for unprotected road users, the bus can be equipped with Safety Zone Management, which automatically prevents specified speed limits from being exceeded, and Pedestrian & Cyclist Detection System, which alerts the driver if there is a risk of collision with pedestrians or cyclists.
Key facts
- Length: 18 or 18.7 m.
- Passenger capacity: Up to 150
- Driveline: Dual electric motors with two-speed transmission.
- Maximum power output 2 x 200kW,
- Maximum torque 31 kNm at the driven axle.
- Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries with up to 396kWh energy storage.
- Charging system: OppCharge, Combo2/CCS.
