[NEWS] Emission free public transport in Rogaland

Rogaland County one step closer to emission free public transport, with 17 electric buses in the city centre of Haugesund.

The first large order of battery electric buses in Rogaland, has been put into traffic in July. A total of 17 electric buses from the manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dream) now operate the two main bus lines in the city centre of Haugesund. The transition from diesel to electric will cut greenhouse gas emissions from public transport in Haugesund with 1.200 tonnes CO2 per year. It is also expected that the NOx emissions (local emission) will be reduced with 8,2 tonnes per year.

Seven of the 17 electric buses are articulated buses that weigh 20,4 tonnes and are 18,6 meters long. Each bus has 16 battery packs without cobalt. The batteries are situated on the top of the bus and underneath. The remaining ten buses are 13,2 meters long and weigh 15,2 tonnes. This type of bus has 14 battery packs.

VY, who operates the buses on behalf of Kolumbus the public transport authorities in Rogaland, has entered into an agreement with the technology company ABB. ABB has expanded the charging system by installing a transformer and 17 fast chargers. One battery electric bus need 3-4 hours to be fully charged. The charging usually takes place at night, but the buses also stop by the depot for a little refill during the day. “Our experience with electric buses here in Haugesund is very good. Both customers and drivers seem very satisfied” says Alf Idar Rossebø at VY.