The Brazilian city of Salvador has begun a one-month operational test of the fully electric e-Volksbus from Volkswagen Truck & Bus, as part of efforts to evaluate zero-emission solutions for its public transport system.
During the trial period, the electric bus will operate on selected routes across the capital of the state of Bahia. The test will assess the vehicle’s performance, driving range and suitability for everyday transit operations under real-world conditions.
Volkswagen Truck & Bus said the trial is intended to support Salvador’s plans to introduce more sustainable mobility solutions and reduce emissions from urban transportation.
The e-Volksbus 22L is a 13.2-meter low-entry electric bus designed to carry up to 82 passengers. It is powered by a 280-kilowatt electric motor and equipped with twelve lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery modules with a combined capacity of 385 kilowatt-hours.
According to the manufacturer, the battery system provides a range of up to 250 kilometers and is designed to support overnight charging strategies that help maximize fleet utilization.
The bus also features regenerative braking technology, which recovers energy during operation and helps extend driving range while reducing mechanical brake wear. An Eco Drive Mode adjusts energy consumption automatically depending on operating conditions.
“The tests being carried out in Salvador represent another step forward in the process of validating the Volksbus in different urban environments across the country,” said Jorge Carrer, Bus Sales Director at Volkswagen Truck & Bus.
Volkswagen Truck & Bus has already begun deploying the electric bus in other Brazilian cities. The company delivered the first 50 units of the e-Volksbus to São Paulo in December after conducting operational tests in the city beginning in May.
Additional deliveries are planned for Resende, a city in the southern part of Rio de Janeiro state.
“In addition to São Paulo, we will soon be working in other strategic capitals,” Carrer said. “This month’s results will be fundamental in confirming the quality of our vehicles and supporting operators and public sector managers with the transition to more efficient and sustainable mobility solutions.”
Volkswagen Truck & Bus, also known as Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus, introduced the e-Volksbus in spring 2024 as an electric bus designed specifically for the Brazilian market.
The company is also preparing to showcase the vehicle internationally, with Mexico expected to become the first country outside Brazil where the model will be displayed.
