Vienna’s public transport operator, Wiener Linien, is introducing 60 electric buses from Daimler Buses into its fleet as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable transportation. The procurement involves the gradual inclusion of Daimler’s eCitaro electric buses, with the initial deployment of four units marking the commencement of this initiative.
Charging infrastructure for the electric buses includes fast chargers positioned along the bus routes and plug-in chargers within the depot. These buses are anticipated to contribute to Wiener Linien’s goal of transitioning nine bus routes to battery-powered vehicles by 2025, aligning with the broader shift toward eco-friendly mobility.
Wiener Linien’s decision to collaborate with Daimler Buses follows an order placed in November 2022, covering 60 battery buses and ten hydrogen buses. The deployment is a crucial step in Vienna’s plan to electrify a significant portion of its bus fleet, promoting cleaner and more sustainable urban transportation.
The first eCitaro electric buses are already operational on routes 71A and 71B, with a rapid charging station installed at the ‘Zentralfriedhof 3. Tor’ terminus for efficient charging between rounds. Additionally, overnight charging facilities are available at the new eMobility Competence Center in Siebenhirten.
The comprehensive initiative, funded by the EU through the EBIN program of the Ministry of Climate Protection, involves an investment of 48 million euros. Wiener Linien aims to enhance its electric bus fleet by electrifying approximately one-fifth of all bus routes by 2025, contributing to Vienna’s broader sustainability goals.
The eCitaro buses, equipped with a 392 kWh lithium-ion battery system, support plug-in charging and offer rapid charging capabilities of up to 300 kW through pantographs. The delivery of the entire fleet is expected to be finalized by 2025, marking a significant step forward in Vienna’s journey toward greener public transportation.
