Zurich’s City Council has approved funding of approximately CHF17 million to enable Verkehrsbetriebe Zürich (VBZ) to purchase 20 battery-electric buses from new suppliers, replacing plans to expand orders with its existing manufacturers.
The new vehicles are scheduled to enter service from mid-2027 as the city continues the electrification of its public transport fleet.
Zurich Public Transport Plans Tender for Up to 100 Electric Buses Amid Supplier Issues
Yutong and Daimler Secure New Bus Orders
Under the approved procurement, VBZ will purchase eight standard battery-electric buses from Yutong and 12 articulated electric buses from Daimler Buses.
The decision marks the first time a Chinese bus manufacturer has been selected to supply electric buses for Zurich’s public transport operator.
The procurement package also includes options allowing VBZ to order additional battery-electric buses from either supplier in the future as fleet electrification progresses.
New Suppliers Chosen After Performance Issues
The latest order follows VBZ’s decision not to exercise existing purchase options with Hess and MAN, despite contractual provisions that would have allowed additional vehicles to be acquired without launching a new tender.
Earlier this year, the transport operator said it was dissatisfied with the performance of electric buses supplied by both manufacturers.
Daimler Buses To Install Charging Infrastructure For SZU Bus Depot Near Zurich
According to VBZ, the vehicles experienced a range of technical issues, including problems affecting heating, ventilation and door systems, while delivery schedules were also delayed.
The operational challenges prompted the operator to seek alternative suppliers for the next phase of its fleet renewal programme.
The newly approved investment is intended to ensure sufficient vehicle availability as Zurich continues expanding its zero-emission public transport network while improving fleet reliability through a more diversified supplier base.