Salvador begins real-world tests with Volkswagen’s e-Volksbus
Over the course of a month, the e-Volksbus from Volkswagen Truck & Bus (VWTB) will run on selected routes in the capital of the state of Bahia to evaluate its performance, range and suitability under real-world operating conditions. According to Volkswagen Truck & Bus, the test is intended to support the city’s efforts to identify sustainable solutions for public transport and promote the use of zero-emission technologies in everyday passenger transport.
The e-Volksbus 22L is a 13.2-metre low-entry variant with a capacity for up to 82 passengers. The electric bus is powered by a 280 kW electric motor. Twelve LFP battery cells, totalling 385 kWh, are designed to provide a range of up to 250 kilometres. The electric bus is designed to operate with overnight charging, a strategy the manufacturer says can maximise fleet productivity while reducing downtime.
According to VWTB, the model is equipped with a regenerative braking system designed to recover energy during operation and extend driving range while also reducing brake wear. In addition, the vehicle features an Eco Drive Mode that automatically adjusts energy consumption depending on operating conditions.
“The tests being carried out in Salvador represent another step forward in the process of validating the Volksbus in different urban environments across the country,” said Jorge Carrer, Bus Sales Director at Volkswagen Truck & Bus.
VWTB already delivered the first 50 units of the e-Volksbus to the Brazilian city of São Paulo in December of last year. This, after the bus had been tested there under real-world conditions since May. Further units were scheduled to go to Resende, a city in the south of the state of Rio de Janeiro.
“In addition to São Paulo, we will soon be working in other strategic capitals,” Carrer continued. “This month’s results will be fundamental in confirming the quality of our vehicles and supporting operators and public sector managers with the transition to more efficient and sustainable mobility solutions.”
The commercial vehicle manufacturer, also known as Volkswagen Caminhões e Ônibus, unveiled the electric bus made in Brazil for Brazil in spring 2024. Alongside the pilot programme in Brazil, Volkswagen Truck & Bus is also presenting the e-Volksbus internationally. According to the company, Mexico will be the first country outside Brazil to display the model.
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