Mosgortrans, Moscow’s state-owned bus operator, has begun test runs for its first articulated electric bus.
Once the tests are complete, the city will purchase additional vehicles to operate on routes with high passenger traffic.
The new electric articulated bus was produced by Russian manufacturing company KAMAZ and can carry 135 passengers. The electric vehicle features a powerful battery, providing a range of 90 kilometres from a 20 minute charge.
Like Moscow’s existing electric buses, the new articulated model features a climate control system and is also the first to be equipped with an electric heater.
It will be tested along route T34 from Park Pobedy to Yugo-Zapadnayametro station.
Nikolai Asaul, the General Director of the Mosgortrans, said:The vehicle has space for 135 passengers and is equipped with climate control systems, increased safety of controlling the vehicle, automatic braking, and a full side view. This makes the electric bus ride environmentally friendly, safe and comfortable.
In 2021, Moscow Transport stopped buying diesel buses and instead focused on more eco-friendly alternatives. In December, it launched its 1000th electric bus and now plans to buy a further 600 in 2022.
The articulated electric bus will cater for the city’s busiest routes, and thus advances Moscow’s aim of electrifying 40 percent of its fleet by the end of 2023.
