Iveco Bus, three quarters of buses sold in 2020 are alternative drives

Three quarters of buses sold by Iveco Bus in 2020 were powered with alternative drives. «It was a big win for non-diesel engine city buses that run on natural gas, in hybrid electric and in 100% electric mode. These alternative energies represented more than 77% of production, an increase of 17% compared to 2019», the manufacturer points out.

Iveco Bus makes public that the natural gas-powered models saw their biggest growth, with one out of two urban buses powered by natural gas. Production of Crossway Natural Power intercity vehicles doubled, representing 10% of production.

Iveco Bus and alternative drive buses

Iveco Bus today offers a full Natural Power range, including the Daily minibus, Urbanway and Crealis buses and the Crossway range, including its Low Entry version, which were awarded Sustainable Bus of the Year in 2020 and 2018, respectively.

Iveco Bus natural gas buses «help preserve natural resources as they are 100% compatible with biomethane recovered from organic waste – the manufacturer says -. Natural gas is particularly attractive in terms of meeting environmental challenges both in relation to polluting emissions and noise pollution as the fine particle level is almost zero and NOx is reduced by more than a third. This environmental benefit results in a reduction in greenhouse gases of up to 95% and noise levels are halved, providing exceptionally quiet operation for drivers, passengers and residents alike».

Alternative drive buses in Iveco Bus portfolio

In addition to its natural gas range, Iveco Bus has developed hybrid electric and 100% electric vehicle ranges: the hybrid, E-Way (built on Heuliez Bus platform) and In-Motion-Charging. The hybrid-powered series is available in the 12- and 18-metre Iveco Bus models. Equipped with the “Arrive & Go” function, the Full Hybrid buses are capable of running in all-electric mode over a total distance of around 60 metres on approach to and departure from bus stations and at red lights, in silence and pollution-free.

Iveco E-Way and battery-powered trolleybus

The brand’s 100% electric offer consists of the battery-powered bus range E-Way, now available in two designs, four lengths (9.5m, 10.7m, 12m and 18m) and three charging modes: overnight at the depot, via pantograph (ascending or descending) or mixed recharging to meet the specific autonomy needs of each customer.

Lastly, the manufacturer offers an In-Motion-Charging trolleybus version that combines overhead electric lines with a small onboard battery. These vehicles charge while running under overhead cables. They can also be powered by battery over a distance of up 25 to 40% of the line.

“In a context where air quality, climate protection and public health are at the heart of global concerns, we are delighted to be able to offer a range of clean vehicles that now meet all the challenges of public transport and confirm that the energy transition is more than ever a reality at Iveco Bus”, welcomes Stéphane Espinasse, IVECO BUS Brand Leader.