NETHERLANDS
Van Hool is to supply Dutch operator Qbuzz with 54 battery-electric A15LE E buses for use on its regional routes in Groningen and Drenthe. Van Hool CEO Filip Van Hool commented: “This order confirms the confidence Qbuzz has in Van Hool. Qbuzz previously ordered nine Van Hool Astromega TDX27 double-deckers and 30 hydrogen buses for use in regular passenger transport. This order is another important benchmark for Van Hool and is undeniable proof of the technological knowledge centre we have built up here in Koningshooikt over the years. Continuous investment is made in research and development of new products. We build the prototypes, pre-series and high-value-added vehicles here and these are almost always tailor-made to the customer’s requirements. We are delighted to contribute to the further greening of Qbuzz’s bus fleet in the Northern Netherlands.”
Dirk Huzeling, Bid Manager at Qbuzz, explained why the operator chose Van Hool: “We were facing a major challenge when opting to replace our current fleet of Qliner buses, which have amply proved their worth. We definitely wanted to go green and so the option of a 100% zero-emission bus was quickly floated. Because of the specificity of the Qliner network in Groningen-Drenthe and its longer-distance, inter-city connections and high average speed, we opted for the long 15-metre buses with 55 comfortable seats for passengers and a large working radius. After a thorough evaluation of the market, we opted for Van Hool, with whom we have already put a number of new vehicles into the existing public transport network in recent years.”
The buses will be fitted with coach seats equipped with seatbelts, USB charging points, footrests and folding tables as well as luggage racks.
