First double-articulated hybrid bus successfully tested in Switzerland
The municipal mass transit operators in Zug, Switzerland, are successfully testing on regular service a world premiere, a 24-meter hybrid bus from Hess fitted with eco-technologies from Vossloh Electrical Systems.On July 18, 2007, the world’s very first 100-percent low-floor, 24-meter long double-articulated hybrid bus operated by the Zug, Switzerland, municipal mass transit operators was made available for test purposes and immediately took up service on Line 6.
The hybrid vehicle features an electrical dual-axle drive system developed by Düsseldorf-based Vossloh Electrical Systems. With the aid of its energy storage system the vehicle can arrive at and leave its stops without any exhaust or noise emissions and without acting as a nuisance for local residents and the waiting passengers. Even with a full load of 200 passengers it accelerates briskly thanks to its electric drive system. Adaptive intelligent energy management devised by Vossloh Electrical Systems allows energy consumption to be reduced.
The hybrid vehicle permits mass transit operators to raise haulage capacity per vehicle to around 200 passengers without any major infrastructure changes for eco-friendly operation. It also permits optimum passenger flow and the transport of prams and wheelchairs. Driver’s cab and passenger zone can be independently air conditioned.
The Zug authorities confirm that during the 6-week trail period there have been no failures or interruptions of operation. The vehicle coped with all the difficulties of normal operation including the negotiation of construction sites and narrow streets in the old part of town.
Photo of the hybrid bus
Werdohl, August 2007