Several New Hybrid Products Launched at Busworld Kortrijk 2011

Busworld Kortrijk 2011 had good participation with over 350 exhibitors (70 bus and coach builders) from 32 different countries. Many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) unveiled their new products, with particular focus on emissions reduction and hybrid technology. Fuel and alternative propulsion systems were prevalent with all manufacturers getting ready for Euro VI compliant products. The atmosphere remained subdued mainly due to market uncertainty and the impact of local governments’ spending. 

The Belgian Bus and Coach manufacturer Van Hool had one of the largest stands. Other than launching the brand new TX Coach for the first time, they also showed the new ExquiCity concept. The principal characteristic of this Rapid Transit (BRT) bus is its multi propulsion platform. This vehicle can be fitted with a CNG drive, a Hybrid diesel electric system, a trolley, with fuel cells or batteries depending on customers’ needs. Thirty-nine ExquiCity buses were already ordered by a European public transportation company. Delivery will begin in mid-2012. Van Hool also claimed that there is a rising demand in fuel cell products. The Belgian manufacturer already has most of its urban buses available with a fuel cell propulsion system. Regarding the coaches, the TX series will be available with DAF Euro 5 engines from 265 kW up to 375 kW and MAN EEV (enhanced environmentally friendly vehicle) engines from 265 kW to 353 kW.

Volvo launched the new 7900 Hybrid city bus featuring a parallel hybrid with rear-mounted, 4-cylinder, 4.76 litre diesel D5F215 engine (161 kW/800 Nm) plus an electric motor (120 kW/800 Nm). This eBus has active temperature-controlled lithium-ion battery cells, with individual cell charge control. Compared to its predecessor the new 7900 is made of more light weight fibers.  All these features allow the new 7900 Hybrid to save up to 37% in fuel consumption and CO2, while NoX reduction is even greater, with up to 50% lower emissions compared to a diesel Euro 5 bus. During the press conference, Volvo announced that Hamburger Hochbahn has already placed an order for 10 Volvo 7700 Hybrid buses. This order was received after a successful completion of field test with two hybrid buses at Süderelbe Bus during this year. Globally Volvo has already sold 250 hybrid buses.

Volvo also displayed a brand new 8900 Intercity Bus available with a Volvo D9B engine (380 hp, 1,700 Nm) or a Volvo D7E engine (290 hp, 1,200 Nm). These are available in an EEV version and with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). All engines meet Euro 5 standards using Selective Catalyst Reduction (SCR) technology.

MAN and Neoplan had several new models displayed at the show. MAN presented the new Euro 6 MAN Lion's City with a D2066 LUH engine delivering 235 kW (320 hp), with integrated exhaust-gas aftertreatment and an on-board diagnostic system complying with the statutory requirements for Euro 6. MAN also showed the D0836 LOH and D2676 LOH models with SCR technology which are both Euro 6 compliant.