Thirty Solaris electric buses arrive in Dortmund

More buses signed Solaris for the city of Dortmund (Germany) and this time they will all be electric. Yes, because the Polish manufacturer will deliver to the German reality thirty e-buses, Urbino 18 model, by the end of 2022.

This investment by public transport operator Dortmunder Stadtwerke AG is part of the city’s long-term strategy to reduce environmental and noise pollution in the urban area: Solaris’ Urbino buses will be the first electric buses in the municipal company’s fleet. In previous years, the city welcomed 13 Solaris buses with conventional diesel engines.

«We have taken a big step forward in introducing electromobility in Dortmund. With Solaris, Ekoenergetyka and Omexom Frankenluk, we now have strong partners at our side who enjoy an excellent reputation in the industry and have a great deal of experience. With their support, our bus fleet, which is already one of the most modern in the country, will take a big step forward and become environmentally friendly, but it will also help to further reduce noise and emissions in Dortmund», emphasized Hubert Jung, member of the DSW21 board of directors.

«Dortmund is making impressive efforts to transform public transport into sustainable transport. I am proud that our company can contribute to this historic change. Thirty modern, zero-emission buses will run through the city center, allowing passengers to experience the undeniable benefits of clean transportation – for people, for the city, for the environment. I sincerely congratulate the company on this investment and am convinced that it is a step towards the future», said Petros Spinaris, Solaris Bus & Coach board member responsible for sales, marketing and after sales.

Solaris’s electrics for Dortmund

The Solaris electric buses that will join the Dortmund fleet will be distinguished by their innovative solutions. The carrier has taken steps to ensure the highest levels of comfort and safety. The MobilEye Shield+ driver assistance system helps eliminate blind spots, and detects pedestrians and cyclists approaching the vehicle. This is especially important during turns, when visibility can be compromised. In addition, state-of-the-art interior equipment will include Usb charging ports, a passenger information system, and eco-friendly LED lighting, among other things.

Investment in zero-emission public transportation vehicles is a milestone in the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in cities. The newly ordered Solaris electric-powered buses will not release any harmful emissions into the atmosphere and, in addition, will provide a high-quality ride thanks to the quiet and smooth operation of the engine. Solaris High Energy batteries, with a total capacity of more than 600 kWh, will be charged by means of a pantograph as well as a conventional plug-in connection.

Thermal comfort will be provided by efficient and environmentally friendly air conditioning with a CO2 heat pump that uses heat from outside to achieve the right ambient temperature inside the vehicle. This solution allows to increase the energy efficiency of the vehicle, which translates into a longer driving range.