E-buses delivered successfully in Berlin, with a further addition of 270 to their fleet
Berlin's BVG Orders More Electric Buses from Solaris, Reinforcing Partnership
Berlin's public transport operator, Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG), has announced a significant expansion of its fleet with an order for 270 more Solaris Urbino 18 electric articulated buses. This record-breaking order is a testament to the successful and long-standing partnership between BVG and Solaris, according to Christian Goll, Managing Director of Solaris Deutschland GmbH.
The order falls under a framework agreement that allows for a maximum of 700 electric articulated buses over an eight-year period. This move is part of BVG's commitment to investing in zero-emission solutions available on the market.
The first order of Solaris Urbino 18 electric buses by BVG was for 50 units, delivered in December 2023. The new buses will be equipped with Solaris High Energy batteries, ensuring efficient and sustainable operations.
Meanwhile, in the realm of charging infrastructure, developments are also underway. Charging for Solaris Urbino 18 electric buses by BVG will be possible via a standard plug-in socket and a pantograph, providing flexibility in charging solutions.
European Challenges: Fleet Electrification and Infrastructure Modernization
Fleet electrification and infrastructure modernization are key challenges faced by public transport operators in Europe today. BVG is tackling these challenges in an exemplary way, as stated by Christian Goll.
Elsewhere in Europe, advancements are being made in autonomous public transport. EMT Madrid is currently testing its first autonomous bus pilot in the Casa de Campo.
In the UK, specific standards for charging infrastructure have been set, and companies like Tritium are adapting to meet these requirements. Kevin Pugh, from Tritium, explains how the firm has managed to meet the UK's CPO requirements.
Leadership changes are also happening in the charging infrastructure sector. Laura Gonçalves has taken over as the new president of the Asociación de Operadores de Recarga Ultrarrápida (AORU) in September 2022, following Jesús Tañari who took over the leadership of the Asociación de Operadores de Recarga Ultrarrápida in the same month.
As Europe continues to strive towards sustainable and efficient public transport solutions, partnerships, advancements, and leadership changes will play crucial roles in shaping the future of transportation.
