Dutch electric bus manufacturer, Ebusco, has unveiled its latest model, the 3.0, which is set to revolutionize the electric bus industry with its impressive features. The standout characteristic of the 3.0 is its lightweight composite body, weighing 27% less than traditional bus bodies. This innovation significantly extends the operational lifespan of the bus to 25 years. Ebusco delivered its first 12-meter 3.0 bus to Transdev, an international public transport company, for use in Hilversum, the Netherlands.
With a curb weight of 9,500 kg (20,944 pounds), the 12-meter model boasts exceptional energy efficiency, consuming remarkably low energy. It can cover distances of up to 575 km (357 miles) and achieves a maximum power of 2 x 125 kW. Additionally, the 18-meter version offers an impressive range of up to 700 km (435 miles). Both bus sizes utilize lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries with a cell capacity of 105 ampere-hours and 3.2 V. The integration of these batteries into the floor design ensures a low center of gravity, enhancing the bus’s stability on the road.
Ebusco conducted a successful pilot program with the 3.0 bus in Munich, where it exhibited more than 30% lower energy consumption compared to its electric predecessor, the Ebusco 2.2. Notably, the 12-meter 3.0 model is lighter than the equivalent 2.2 model, which weighs 13,580 kg (29,939 pounds).
Despite facing supply chain challenges since the end of 2022, Ebusco plans to deliver the 3.0 buses in phases over the coming months. The company aims to achieve a production capacity of 3,000 buses annually in the medium term.
The introduction of Ebusco’s 3.0 electric buses with their lightweight construction and impressive range is expected to have a transformative impact on the electric bus industry, offering enhanced energy efficiency and a longer operational lifespan.
