In comes Volvo's new 7900 Electric Bus- representing the very latest in high tech aluminium based and environmentally friendly technology. The stylish two-axle, 12-meter long, 2nd generation electric bus is formed from an upgraded aluminium skeletal foundation- helping attain new heights in energy and cost efficiency. The patented « aluminium concept » used in these buses have helped cut 550 kilograms from the previous model. This means that the already quiet electric bus of the past will get even quieter.
As aluminium is corrosion resistant, an essential factor in boosting the life service of the buses, these vehicles are both a sustainable and cost effective option. Additionally, up to 90 percent of the aluminium structure used can be recycled, minimizing the carbon and resource footprint of the bus.
As if that wasn't enough, the 7900 Bus, thanks in part to its light alloyed composition, is up to 80 percent more fuel efficient than conventional buses while emitting only a fraction of the noise. And who says being environmentally friendly doesn't mean maintaining a comfortable spacious feel ? The bus accommodates up to 85 people, is equipped with three doors and a « bright and airy interior ».
TRANSPORT
Volvo's new high-tech aluminium based 7900 Electric Bus
Aluminium's unique metal characteristics, in particular its light mass and durability, have long ensured that this alloy has been front and centre in the use of transport products
November 28, 2015
As transport technology continues to evolve in the current « era of environmentalism », aluminium will play an even more important role.
Increasingly lighter, yet more durable compositions of the metal are enabling new cutting edge transport products to enter the market. In 2010 Volvo made global headlines when it introduced the 8900, its first electric, urban purpose bus.
Thanks to its innovative use of a hybrid aluminium and steel base, these buses were significantly lighter, quieter, and more environmentally friendly than the still dominant conventional bus. The popularity of the alloyed based machines- praised by mayors as contributing to a green revolution in urban areas- have incentivized the Swedish car company to develop an even more cutting edge vehicle.
Thanks to its innovative use of a hybrid aluminium and steel base, these buses were significantly lighter, quieter, and more environmentally friendly than the still dominant conventional bus. The popularity of the alloyed based machines- praised by mayors as contributing to a green revolution in urban areas- have incentivized the Swedish car company to develop an even more cutting edge vehicle.
Volvo 7900 race: diesel VS hybrid
Electric-hybrid buses and full-electric buses are tomorrow's solution for urban public transport. They will allow us to reduce energy consumption, air pollution, climate impact and noise, which are some of the biggest challenges facing large cities worldwide.
Håkan Agnevall
President, Volvo Bus Corporation
The 7900 bus represents another important milestone in the direction towards sustainable transport and a cleaner, quieter, urban life. Aluminium, and its increasingly sophisticated usage, will continue to be an integral part of this transformation.