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Scania is set to commence deliveries of its new electric buses to the Åre region in northern Sweden, an area known for its significant temperature fluctuations. This initiative marks a key step in Scania’s strategy to broaden its footprint in the electric bus market, leveraging its recently launched battery electric platform. The deployment will enhance the sustainability and safety of public transportation in the region.
Key Highlights
- New Electric Bus Deliveries: Scania will begin delivering new electric buses to Åre, Sweden, in the summer of 2024.
- Advanced Platform: The buses utilize Scania’s new battery electric platform, introduced in October 2023, which now includes a three-axle variant.
- Extreme Climate Operation: These electric buses are designed to operate reliably in environments with temperature variations of up to 60°C, from -30°C in winter to +30°C in summer.
- Phased Delivery: The initial delivery will consist of two-axle Scania Fencer f1 low-entry buses, followed by three-axle Scania Irizar i3 low-entry buses at the end of the year.
- Sustainability Focus: The fourteen electric buses will be charged using locally sourced, sustainable hydropower, contributing to zero tailpipe emissions.
- Enhanced Safety Features: The buses are equipped with the latest road safety technology, including new advanced driver assistance systems.
The order, secured in 2024, underscores the growing demand for electric buses in public transport tenders. Scania’s new electric bus platform, featuring both two-axle and the recently added three-axle versions, is central to its ambitions in this evolving sector. Anna Ställberg, Head of Urban Solutions at Scania, stated, “We listened to the market and developed an electric bus platform that meets today’s transport needs. This order demonstrates that customers and authorities appreciate its benefits.” Ställberg also highlighted that beyond their zero tailpipe emissions, the buses incorporate cutting-edge road safety technology, including new advanced driver assistance system functionalities.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin this summer with the first batch comprising two-axle low-entry Scania Fencer f1 models. These initial buses will be equipped with four battery packs. Following this, three-axle low-entry Scania Irizar i3 buses, featuring five battery packs, will be delivered around the turn of the year. This deployment is a collaborative effort involving local Scania dealer Berners and operator Connect Bus. The fourteen electric buses are intended for use in both city and suburban routes, aiming to make the local public transport system more sustainable and safer. A significant aspect of this initiative is the commitment to charging the buses with local and sustainable hydropower.
Jonas Kempe, CEO of Connect Bus, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming deliveries: “Connect Bus is looking forward to receiving the first batch of electric two- and three-axle buses from Scania. With this order, we are investing in a healthier living environment and taking the next step to making zero emissions the new standard.” Notably, Scania’s electric buses are already operational in nearby areas and have demonstrated their capability to perform reliably despite the challenging temperature swings characteristic of the region. This proven resilience further supports the suitability of these electric buses for the demanding conditions of northern Sweden.
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