MONACO
he Principality of Monaco has taken delivery of 10 Iveco 9.5mE-Way midibuses, the first of their type to operate in Monaco as part of its drive to improve air quality while reducing noise pollution. They started to enter service in early April following an inauguration ceremony which took place on 28 March and was attended by Prince Albert II, sovereign Prince of Monaco.
The new buses feature a strong local identity, the red and white colours chosen both for the exterior customisation and seat trim are a reminder of Monaco’s national flag. The seats are finished in vegetal leather, a more environmental-friendly plant derived alternative to real leather, which was specifically chosen by the operator to further reduce the carbon footprint of its vehicles. Easily accessible, these midibuses will be able to welcome more than 60 passengers on board, including 16 seated. They are equipped with air conditioning, information screens and USB ports. At 9.5m long and only 2.33m wide, the E-Way is well-suited to the narrow streets in locations such as Monaco. The vehicles are fitted with a rear-view vision system that replaces the traditional exterior mirror and areis equipped with a 160kW electric motor and NMC Lithium-ion batteries located on the roof and at the rear.
Roland de Rechniewski, Director of Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco, said: “We are entering a new era by putting into service this series of buses that comply with our environmental commitments. Their elegance and comfort, we hope, will convince our users and visitors.” Stéphane Espinasse, Head of Sales & Products at Iveco Bus, added: “We are particularly proud to deliver for the first time our full electric midibuses in such a prestigious place as Monaco, and to support the principality in its strong approach to respecting environment and the
Mediterranean coast.”
