Badajoz’s electric buses

• Country: Spain
• Sector: Buses
• Area of Action: Urban transport
• Type of service: Municipality/public service
• Power source: Electric
• Aspects described in the case study:
  • Generating awareness among citizens and staff
  • Training of e-bus maintenance staff

CONTEXT

Badajoz is a city of just over 150,000 inhabitants located in southwestern Spain, in Extremadura. In 2019 it began a process aimed at electrifying its urban bus fleet. This project, which represents a comprehensive implementation rather than a simple pilot test, has as its main objective to increase sustainability and decrease carbon emissions, which also represents an estimated savings of 300,000 euros. The decision to move forward with this transition is based on the need to reduce air pollution, optimize the efficiency of public transport and adhere to both national and international environmental commitments.

THE PROCESS

• Planning and Investment: The electric bus project in Badajoz started with detailed planning and a total investment of approximately 4.3 million euros, of which 900,000 euros were subsidized through the IDAE project “Badajoz se cuida” (Badajoz takes care of itself).

• Infrastructure Development: Advanced recharging systems were installed, provided by Siemens in collaboration with MAN Truck & Bus Iberia. The 100 kW Sicharge UC100 chargers allow the buses to be recharged overnight, guaranteeing uninterrupted daily operation.

• Technological integration: The new fleet consists of 12-meter Lion’s City E buses, with 480 kWh batteries offering a range of up to 350 km and capacity for 88 passengers. This technological integration ensures the efficiency and reliability of the service.

• Training Programs: Training programs were implemented for more than 100 Tubasa employees, including drivers and technical personnel. Training covered the operation and maintenance of the new buses and loading systems.

Awareness Campaigns: Information campaigns and public demonstrations were carried out to raise community awareness of the benefits of electric mobility. These activities reached thousands of residents, encouraging the acceptance and use of electric public transportation.

IMPACT

• Environmental Benefits: The transition to electric buses has resulted in a significant reduction of polluting emissions, improving air quality and positioning Badajoz as a leader in sustainable mobility in Spain and Europe.

• Operational Efficiency: The new fleet can operate for 16 hours a day without the need for intermediate refueling, which has optimized operations and improved the efficiency of the public transport service.

• Public Health: The reduced emissions and lower noise of the electric buses have contributed to improving public health, providing a cleaner and quieter environment for the residents of Badajoz.

• Economic Growth: The project has generated annual savings of approximately 300,000 euros in operating and maintenance costs, benefiting the local economy.

• Training and Skills Development: The training provided has improved the technical skills of the staff, ensuring safe and efficient operation of the electric buses and increasing the satisfaction of public transport users.

MORE INFORMATION

The electric bus project in Badajoz has been facilitated by national and regional policies that promote sustainable mobility, such as IDAE subsidies. Collaboration with BYD, a leader in electric buses, has been key to overcoming technical challenges. Despite obstacles, such as the need for charging infrastructure and specialized training, careful planning and training programs have been effective. This project serves as a model for other cities, showing the importance of political support and public-private collaboration.

MULTIMEDIA

Sources:

https://www.extremadura7dias.com/ficheros/imagenes/2022_08/autobuis.jpg

https://www.autobusesyautocares.com/multimedia/images/tubasa_incorporaraOK.jpg

https://www.transporteprofesional.es/media/k2/items/cache/0c3d72b6bbeccb492543d6baaa347ace_XL.jpg

Videos:

Relevant links:

https://www.lacronicabadajoz.com/badajoz/2024/04/24/ocho-nuevo-autobuses-urbanos-100-101497970.html