Iveco Bus to deliver 140 articulated Urbanway hybrid in Prague

The Prague Public Transit Company (DPP) and Iveco Bus have signed a framework contract for the supply of up to 140 18-metre Urbanway Hybrid vehicles over a period of 5 years. The model, featuring mild hybrid technology thanks to Voith gearbox, was launched in mid-2022.

The first units are expected to be operating in the capital of the Czech Republic in 2024. DPP will be the first operator in the Czech Republic to have this model in operations.

DPP to have 75% low or zero emission bus fleet by 2030

DPP has chosen the articulated bus model by Iveco Bus for the renewal of its fleet as part of the 2030 Climate Plan for the capital city of Prague. The plan calls for 75% of DPP buses to be completely emission-free or low-emission vehicles.

The articulated Urbanway Hybrid is equipped with the DIWA NXT gearbox by Voith (with mild hybrid module) and the Cursor 9 engine featuring HI-SCR technology. The full low-floor Urbanway Hybrid will be equipped with four double doors and offer a maximum capacity of 130 passengers, including 35 seated. A full air conditioning, automatic passenger counting equipment, a camera system including interior surveillance, front detection, a rearview camera, and side cameras are installed.

Voith 48V hybrid system for the Urbanway Hybrid

As mentioned, the Urbanway Hybrid features a 48 V hybrid solution developed by Voith for the new Diwa NXT gearbox. The Diwa NXT gearbox is combined with a 35 kW peak electrical recovery module, which acts as a starter and generator to recover the kinetic energy accumulated during the deceleration and braking phases, with a high-energy LTO battery (48 V) mounted on the roof. The battery is able to supply 25 kW during the starting phases to relay the Cursor 9 engine, Iveco Bus stresses.

The new solution also features a Stop & Start function, which is activated automatically with no driver intervention.

“We are particularly proud to have been selected by DPP for this important supply and to support the City of Prague on the energy transition of its public transport fleet.  Our success in this tender demonstrates that we fulfill the requirements of cities and that we have the vehicles to meet them: we can provide a transport solution that effectively addresses the operational and environmental concerns that are at the top of the agenda for public authorities,” said Giorgio Zino, Iveco Bus Head of Europe Bus Commercial Operations.

“Prague’s 2030 plan and national or European commitments foresee that 75% of DPP buses will be completely emission-free or low-emission vehicles locally. On the one hand, these are low-emission vehicles; on the other hand, in the event of a blackout or any unexpected situation in the power grid, we will be able to put them into operation without major restrictions and thus provide basic transport services to the capital city Prague, which is our basic duty. Thanks to these buses, we will be able to maintain a certain independence from the charging infrastructure in the future and diversify potential risks”, adds Petr Witowski, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of DPP.