Scania introduces plug-in hybrid drive for buses

The Scania Super is essentially a fuel-efficient 13-litre engine available in power ranges between 343 kW and 418 kW. Initially, it was only available for trucks, but now Scania is bringing it to the bus segment with a twist: for city buses and coaches, the Scania Super will not only be available as a pure combustion engine, but also as a plug-in hybrid configuration (PHEV).Such a PHEV bus could be attractive to city bus operators who are wary of the still very high additional costs of a fully electric bus compared to a diesel model. Furthermore, so far, there are basically only fully electric city buses, but no coaches. Accordingly, a PHEV is an interesting new option in this sector, as Scania also emphasises. After all, unlike a pure electric bus, a PHEV bus would not be as dependent on the availability of suitable charging stations on long-distance routes, but could still be charged at the operator’s depot and, optionally, on the road. What’s more, it would also be allowed to enter zero-emission zones.80 km pure electric rangeBut what does Scania’s PHEV configuration for buses actually offer? First of all, Scania emphasises that the new drive platform, with its two different alternatives, combustion engine and PHEV, generally enables long-distance operators to find a solution that is perfectly tailored to their individual challenges and requirements. The plug-in hybrid variant is intended to be an excellent alternative for customers who value significant cost and CO2 reductions and a first-class customer experience in long-distance transport.In terms of technology, with an integrated electric motor and six-speed powershift transmission, the PHEV can operate in four different modes: electric, hybrid, charge maintenance and forced charging. The electric range is up to 80 kilometres on a single charge, and the electric power output is 290 kilowatts.Switch to pure electric drive in zero-emission zonesThis setting is designed to enable coaches to enter larger zero-emission zones in city centres, such as London, without compromising on overall range. To facilitate the switch to electric mode, bus operators can use Scania Zone geofencing technology to automate the process. If the vehicle is to be used in emission-free areas, this can be pre-programmed in the Scania Zone. The vehicle can then automatically switch from the hybrid mode, which is normally used, to pure electric mode.“Our new combustion and plug-in hybrid powertrains are shining examples of Scania’s twin commitment to sustainability and profitability for bus and coach customers,” says Carl-Johan Lööf, Head of Product Management for Passenger Transport Solutions at Scania. “With these new powertrains, we will be able to provide long-distance bus and coach operators with incredibly competitive solutions, regardless of their specific needs or which particular challenges they face, meeting both their current and future business needs.”scania.comThis article was first published byFlorian Treißfor electrive’s German edition.