The coastal city of Kiel in northern Germany is set to bolster its public transportation fleet with an order of 50 electric buses from Dutch manufacturer VDL. Commencing in July of next year and spanning a year-long period, Kiel’s capital of Schleswig-Holstein will witness a steady influx of three to five new electric buses each month, marking a noteworthy development in the city’s commitment to environmentally friendly transportation.
The substantial order comprises 30 Citea LF-181 articulated electric buses and 20 Citea LF-122 electric solo buses, all of the latest generation models. Valued at 800,000 euros for an articulated bus and 600,000 euros for a solo bus, this initiative represents a significant investment in climate protection, amounting to over 37 million euros. Notably, it has received substantial support in the form of subsidies, with approximately 15 million euros approved by the German Federal Ministry of Digital Affairs and Transport (BMDV).
KVG Managing Director, Andreas Schulz, expressed the organization’s commitment to green transportation solutions, highlighting the importance of this endeavor for the region’s environmental sustainability. KVG’s partnership with VDL dates back to 2019 when they initially acquired fully electric articulated buses of the Citea SLFA-187 Electric variety. In 2021, VDL was further entrusted with the contract for an additional eleven electric buses, solidifying their role in Kiel’s ongoing transition towards sustainable and eco-friendly public transportation.
