Scania unveils new platform for electric buses

A new battery-electric bus platform is on display from Scania at Busworld in Brussels. In a first step, it will be used for 4x2 low-entry buses, which will then achieve ranges of more than 500 kilometres "under optimal conditions."

Scania currently has Citywide BEV, a twelve-meter-long low-floor solo bus with two battery variants (250 or 320 kWh). With the new platform, Scania aims to increase these values significantly: future electric buses based on the new architecture will be available with battery variants of 416 and 520 kWh, which, according to the manufacturer, should enable ranges of more than 400 and 500 kilometres, respectively, under optimal conditions.

Scania developed the batteries for the platform together with Northvolt. They are said to be particularly sustainable. Four or five packs of 105 kWh each will be installed, giving a total capacity of 416 and 520 kWh. The manufacturer is vague about the charging capability: “Scania’s updated battery packs and battery management system allow faster charging – and the new robust charging port placement makes it more convenient as well,” the company writes. It does not get more precise at this point. As for the electric motors, the new electric buses get 250 kW continuous and 300 kW peak power. The Swedes talk about a more powerful electric motor with a newly integrated cooling system and an updated control system.

It will first be used in 4×2 low-entry buses, which Scania says will be developed with bodybuilders. The platform will offer “flexible specification options” to meet different conditions and requirements. According to Scania, it is suitable for medium- and heavy-duty operations in both Class I and Class II in urban, suburban and regional areas. It offers two chassis widths (2,500 and 2,550 mm) and two different axle transmissions.

Lastly, Scania announced advanced driver assist, additional safety features, cyber security threat protection and enhanced digital capabilities.

“During the development of our new battery electric bus platform, range, performance, and battery responsibility have been key areas – all crucial to achieving viable and sustainable transport systems. Combined with our latest e-mobility services and solutions, this means we will provide complete and highly competitive solutions for urban applications in all our current regions,” says Carl-Johan Lööf, Head of Product Management, People Transport Solutions at Scania.

scania.com