Volvo starts production of electric double-articulated buses in Brazil

Volvo Buses has kicked off series production of its fully electric articulated and bi-articulated BZRT bus chassis in Brazil. The 28-metre, zero-emission vehicles are designed for high-capacity Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems and are now available for export from the Curitiba facility to global markets.

Both the articulated and bi-articulated variants are powered by two 200 kW electric motors, delivering a combined 400 kW through a two-speed automated transmission based on Volvo’s I-Shift technology. The chassis supports up to eight battery modules with a total installed capacity of 540 to 720 kWh, enabling full recharges within two to four hours.

All battery packs are installed beneath the floor, allowing for a flat interior layout. At 28 metres in length, the bi-articulated version of the BZRT can transport up to 250 passengers, matching the capacity of a metro train.

“We have combined the attributes of our conventional articulated and bi-articulated buses, renowned worldwide, with the advantages of the most advanced electric technology from the Volvo Group,” said Alexandre Selski, Director of Electromobility at Volvo Buses Latin America.

The BZRT platform integrates active safety technologies in line with Volvo’s Zero Accident vision. These include forward-facing and lateral cameras, blind spot monitoring with side sensors, and pedestrian and cyclist detection systems. The vehicle also incorporates traffic sign recognition with driver alerts and Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS) for improved stability, precision, and reduced driver fatigue.

Volvo Buses first introduced the new BZR Electric platform in 2024. The BZRT is a variant of this chassis, especially developed for Bus Rapid Transit systems.

“The production start in Brazil marks an important step in Volvo Buses’ commitment to offer sustainable people transport solutions,” said André Marques, President of Volvo Buses Latin America. “Since launching the Volvo BZRT, we have observed a steady rise in customer interest and demand for this application.”

With Curitiba now serving as a production and export hub, Volvo Buses is expanding its electrified offering to meet the growing demand for high-capacity, zero-emission public transport solutions across urban centres worldwide.

In March, Volvo Buses also introduced the bi-articulated Volvo 7800 Electric for the Mexican market. It measures just under 26 metres and can, according to information given at the time of the launch, carry up to 300 passengers. However, the model is not imported from Brazil. It will be manufactured at the Volvo Buses plant in Mexico, with the first units scheduled to hit the road next year.

volvobuses.com