Italy becomes the fourth market to deploy Hitachi Energy’s flash charging technology for e-buses

Italy is the fourth country worldwide where Hitachi Energy’s Grid-eMotion Flash ultra-fast charging system for electric buses will be deployed, with operations starting from 2026.

After deployments in Geneva in Switlerland (the well known pioneeristic TOSA project), Nantes and Brisbane, the system will enter service in Genoa during 2026, followed by Vicenza from 2027. It’s worth noticing that both Genoa and Vicenza will witness vehicles provided by Hess, that following its (very recent) takeover of Kiepe’s trolleybus business is establishing a structure in Italy.

Hitachi Energy reports that more than 55 Grid-eMotion Flash charging points are currently in operation worldwide, alongside over 500 Grid-eMotion Fleet depot charging points.

Hitachi Energy ultra-fast charging in Italy

The system was presented in Rome during the sixth Giornate di Studio Sistema Autobus e Filobus, organised by ASSTRA, AIIV and ANAV at the Ministry of Infrastructure end of January. On that occasion, Hitachi Energy introduced to the Italian public the Grid-eMotion Flash as an opportunity-charging solution designed to recharge electric buses during short operational stops along the route, according to information released by the company.

Grid-eMotion Flash delivers high-power charging in a matter of seconds, allowing electric buses to remain in service without extended depot stops. Hitachi Energy states that frequent charging enables the use of smaller onboard batteries, increasing available passenger space and maintaining a more constant state of charge over time.