De Lijn, intelligent software to optimize depots and charging

In order to manage its charging systems and depots as effectively and efficiently as possible, De Lijn has decided to invest in software that will, precisely, manage the charging processes and all e-bus movements in its depots. The value of the contract with German supplier PSI is 11.2 million euros.

The software will manage the entire charging process as efficiently as possible, starting with the SOC (State of Charge) on arrival and taking into account the next day’s battery requirements. The automated charging process will be started as soon as the driver connects the CCS2 plug to the designated parking area.

This solution will play a crucial role in the renewal of De Lijn’s fleet: as part of a sustainable Flanders, the operator has committed to the goal of completely emission-free public transport by 2035. A goal that translated into numbers means that about 2,100 buses and more than 50 depots will have to be electrified. The sharp rise in electricity prices over the past year underscores the importance of optimizing bus charging processes.

«The software package that has been approved by the board is of crucial importance to ensure that
the e-buses can take to the road and can be charged at the De Lijn depots. The system determine at the end of each day which task it willbe allocated the next day. This trip order enables the system to direct each e-bus to correct parking position, so that they can leave the depot in the correct order the next morning. The board of directors’ approval bring a step closer to implementing our sustainability targets», says Lydia Peeters, Mobility and Public Works minister.