In a significant step towards sustainable urban transport, the French capital region of Île-de-France has initiated test drives of an electric double-articulated bus equipped with a floor-based conductive charging system from Alstom. This trial marks the first of its kind in the region and signals a potential shift towards cleaner, more efficient public transportation.
The test vehicle, named Tzen 4, is the result of collaboration between Van Hool, Kiepe Electric, and Alstom, developed specifically for Île-de-France Mobilités’ ambitious plans to introduce a fleet of 24-metre-long electric buses. This move underscores the region’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving air quality.
Alstom’s innovative ground-based charging solution, the SRS system, is a key component of the Tzen 4 bus. This static charging system, with ground contact, offers rapid charging “that charges the on-board equipment automatically, at very high power and in just a few minutes,” according to Alstom. The system can charge the buses either at stops along the route or at the depot, providing flexibility and efficiency in the charging process.
Jean-Baptiste Eyméoud, President of Alstom France, highlighted the significance of the SRS system, stating, “For more than 20 years now, Alstom has been developing and deploying catenary-free static and dynamic ground charging solutions.” He added, “Today, I am delighted with this world première: the first circulation of the Tzen 4 bus, 100% electric, bi-articulated and recharged on the ground thanks to our proven and innovative SRS system.”
The introduction of the Tzen 4 buses comes as Île-de-France Mobilités aims to enhance its public transportation network, particularly with the development of two new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines. These extra-long buses, capable of carrying around 140 passengers, are set to operate on the new BRT lines connecting various parts of the region, offering a combination of tram-like comfort and the flexibility of road buses.
While the exact charging capacity of the SRS system was not specified, previous discussions in 2019 indicated a capacity of 200 kW for a 12-metre prototype in Málaga. The adoption of this technology in the Paris region represents a significant milestone in the advancement of sustainable urban transport.
Despite recent announcements by Van Hool regarding the discontinuation of city bus production, the impact on the project remains uncertain. The company’s decision reflects challenges in the electric city bus segment and the current economic climate. However, the commitment of Alstom and its partners to advancing electric bus technology remains steadfast, offering hope for a greener future in urban transportation.