BRAZIL Volvo Buses has started the production of its first electric bi-articulated bus chassis in South America. Available in both articulated and bi-articulated versions, the Volvo BZRT model is manufactured at the company’s Brazilian plant in Curitiba, which is now capable of exporting the chassis to BRT systems worldwide. Measuring 28 meters in length and capable of carrying up to 250 passengers, Volvo describes the BZRT as a highly efficient vehicle, able to transport the same number of passengers as a subway train, but with much lower implementation and operating costs.
“The production start in Brazil marks an important step in Volvo Buses’ commitment to offer sustainable people transport solutions. The offering of high-capacity electric buses is part of this initiative,” said President of Volvo Buses Latin America André Marques. “Since launching the Volvo BZRT, we have observed a steady rise in customer interest and demand for this application.” Equipped with two 200kW motors producing the equivalent to 540hp, the bus features a two-speed automated transmission based on the Volvo I-Shift and can be fitted with up to eight batteries, providing a total capacity of 720kWh.
“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 to ensure quality and reliability,” added Director of Electromobility Alexandre Selski.
The buses also align with Volvo’s zero accident vision for the future of its vehicles, with active safety technologies including cameras to detect dangerous situations that the driver may not foresee, as well as front and side blind spot sensors and traffic sign recognition.
