World's First Electric Bus with Bombardier's PRIMOVE System Begins Revenue Service

BRAUNSCHWEIG, GERMANY--(Marketwired - March 27, 2014) - Transport operator Braunschweiger Verkehrs-AG's first electric bus equipped with Bombardier PRIMOVE technology began revenue service today in Germany. In the presence of senior federal and state representatives, the PRIMOVE electric bus completed its first regular passenger service in the city. This marks another important milestone for the practical application of the PRIMOVE system.

The passenger service has started with a 12 m long electric solo bus operating on the central circular line M19. From October, four additional 18 m articulated e-buses will be phased in. It will be the first time that eco-friendly 18 m electric buses have replaced conventional buses in regular passenger operation.

Each bus is equipped with the wireless PRIMOVE fast-charging system and the new PRIMOVE high-performance batteries. In Braunschweig, the world's first inductive charging system is coming into use. With an output of 200 kW, it charges electric buses in just a few seconds, enabling them to cover the distance to the next charging station with ease.

In recent weeks, the 12 m e-bus already approved by TÜV SÜD underwent final system and load tests, enabling the TÜV approval of the entire PRIMOVE system in Braunschweig in time for the start of passenger operation. These included 280 recorded charging cycles, almost 3,000 km travelled electrically and various tests for electrical safety and electromagnetic emission.

For passengers, the PRIMOVE system will remain largely inaudible and invisible. The electric buses are not only quieter and cause less vibration than conventional diesel buses, they also accelerate more evenly - a much smoother ride awaits passengers in Braunschweig. The PRIMOVE high power charging pads embedded in concrete are installed under the road surface at the main station and at selected stops. The primary electrical installation is also integrated underground at the bus stops. The cooling units for those wayside power electronics have been neatly integrated into an advertising pillar and the shelter at the bus stop. The location of primary and wayside components underground or in existing street furniture offers great advantages to urban planners compared to conductive charging solutions.