Monday 22 September 2014

Volvo to launch new hybrid electric bus

Volvo is to officially launch its new plug-in hybrid bus this week.

It claims the 7900 Electric Hybrid model is silent, cleaner and will lower fuel usage and carbon dioxide by up to 75% compared to a conventional diesel bus.

The bus can run for around seven kilometres on an electric motor but also has a small diesel engine allowing it to be used in hybrid mode. It can be recharged in around six minutes, the company said. said.

Håkan Agnevall, President Volvo Bus Corporation said: “Electric-hybrid buses and full-electric buses are tomorrow’s solution for urban public transport. They will allow us to reduce energy consumption, air pollution, climate impact and noise, which are some of the biggest challenges facing large cities worldwide.”

Volvo said it has already signed contracts with several European cities for the first deliveries.