Swedish Prime Minister, Stefan Lofven handed over a symbolic key to Maharashtra CM Devendra Phadnavis. Volvo Buses has been certified by Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) for the Hybrid City Bus. Volvo is the first bus manufacturer to commercially use hybrid technology in India. Globally, Volvo uses electric hybrid, plug-in electric hybrid and full electric buses for city commute fleets.
As on date, 2,400 hybrid buses are in use in 20 countries, with many a repeat order. Volvo electromobility programme takes pride in sales of 5,000+ hybrid and full electric buses. Akash Passey, Senior Vice President – Business Region International, Volvo Buses says the move is significant making the first hybrid bus in India a Volvo. Volvo hybrid solutions over 30 to 35 percent fuel saving, and reduces emissions in actual customer operations by up to 50 percent. He looks forward to improved demand for Volvo hybrid mobility solutions in other Indian cities.
VRV Sriprasad, Business Head for India and South Asia – Volvo Buses said thanked Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation for its trust in Volvo. Volvo is in talks with other city authorities to promote hybrid technology. Central Government’s FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles) scheme has encouraged hybrid technology in India, and the hybrid bus upholds Volvo’s public transport vision in India and government initiatives.
Volvo 8400 Hybrid City Bus is a variant of the Volvo City Bus of which 1,500 units operate in 34 Indian cities. Volvo 8400 Hybrid City Bus has a parallel hybrid system using a 5-litre, 4-cylinder, in-line diesel engine and an electric motor. The bus moves forward in electric mode as it spurs into life till it gains required momentum. This occurs at every stop and start action and helps in fuel savings and reduction in emissions. Batteries are charged by a re-generative brake system.
Noise levels are noticeably reduced inside and outside the bus. Volvo I-Coaching on-board driver training system ensures best hybrid system performance. Volvo 8400 Hybrid City Bus meets Bus Body Code and Urban Bus specification norms.