De Lijn has awarded a framework agreement to Irizar e-mobility for the supply of up to 100 electric Irizar ie tram buses.
De Lijn is the public transport company of the Flemish Region of Belgium. The new vehicles will be deployed in special projects such as the Spartacus project in Limburg and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Kortrijk.
Lydia Peeters, Minister of Mobility and Public Works said:BRT electric buses are a good solution to deal with the underdevelopment of the rail network in Limburg. First, we’re putting the Spartacus line 2 from Hasselt to Maasmechelen into service. And the lines from Hasselt to Maastricht and Pelt will follow later on.
Irizar e-mobility was selected for this contract following a competitive tender with nine participants.
Ann Schoubs, General Director of De Lijn said:With Irizar, we have an additional supplier that has a strong reputation in the electric bus market for this higher segment. BRT electric buses are different from regular electric buses because they have more streamlined exteriors and higher-quality interiors. Time will tell if and how many vehicles we get from the two active framework agreements for BRT electric buses.
The Irizar e-buses will feature modern amenities to enhance the passenger experience, including USB charging points, phone holders and reading lamps. They will also have seats with higher backrests and will be fitted with additional glass panels to optimise natural light.
In addition, like the operator’s other electric buses, these vehicles will have an electrically operated ramp and information screens with stop indications.
Irizar e-mobility Managing Director Iñigo Etxeberria said:We’re very thankful to De Lijn for putting their trust in Irizar e-mobility. They are making a significant commitment to electrifying public transport and we’re proud to be by their side in this process, contributing with all our experience, technology and strength.
