Greentech Lead America: BUQUEBUS and CTS Auto S.A, in partnership with Chinese electric vehicles maker BYD, unveiled the first 12 meter rapid transit bus powered 100 percent by electricity in Uruguay and the region.
The launch follows the electric bus contract won by BYD last year. The BYD Electric Bus integrates several cutting-edge technologies including two in- wheel, electric motors capable of a cruising speed over 88 km/h (or > 55mph), and a first of its kind environmentally-friendly Iron-Phosphate Battery. This drive system provides a range of over 250 km (155 miles) – nearly 24 hours of service daily for most transit applications.
The units unveiled today are designed to fulfill the tourist bus routes in the city of Colonia, but soon, several long-distance BYD-options will join the BUQUEBUS as urban transport buses.
The BYD battery technology also allows for a full charge in less than 5 hours. The bus can be charged overnight, when the electricity pricing is lower.
The rechargeable battery system and electric motors developed by BYD engineers together offer a significant savings in both energy consumption and environmental pollution, the company said. Because of the in-wheel-hub motors, the BYD Electric Bus has the lowest floor of any bus, There is only one step onto the bus, allowing quick and easy access for people with reduced mobility, wheelchairs and baby strollers.
By 2015 it is expected that more than 500 BYD electric buses will be running on the streets and roads of Uruguay, generating significant environmental impact.
Recently BYD delivered six electric buses to the Netherlands, marking the beginning of a fully-electrified public transportation service in the Netherlands.