In Hungary the brand new electric Credobus Electronell was presented and is already being tested in the urban transport of the Hungarian city of Győr. The vehicle is a Hungarian product built in Mosonmagyaróvár and Győr. The 12-metre model has started its first passenger tests, while the 18-metre articulated version will be introduced in the second half of the year.
The Credobus Electronell is a brand new, 100% electrically powered bus family developed and manufactured in Hungary by the Kravtex-Kühne Group of Mosonmagyaróvár and Győr (Hungary). The company already produced more than 3,000 buses and says is ready to electrify Hungarian public transport with its new product. Both new vehicles are barrier-free and suitable for both urban and suburban transport. The Electronell 12 is one of the lightest electric buses with a metal frame, the empty weight is according to the manufacturer just 11 tons. The weight advantage of at least 2 tonnes compared to a conventional lay out makes it possible to reduce the battery quantity by 25%. The target range of 300 kilometres can be achieved with 3 battery packs instead of 4. Credobus' ultralight construction is based on a metal frame structure and is almost completely recyclable. The low weight is ensured by the optimisation of the chassis and 19.5" axles, states the manufacturer which added: "Additional benefits of the solution include: increased passenger capacity, faster charging, smaller ecological footprint, avoided overloading".
The Low Entry design has made it possible to place 2 out of 3 battery packs under the floor, providing a low centre of gravity. Credobus has chosen for an "optimum" wheel size to make lower wheel arches possible to increase the space in the interior. Due to the low positioned drive train, the raised floor section provides full, plane standing places. The solo version is designed with a 2-2-2 door configuration, with an interior layout suitable for both urban and suburban applications. Energy storage is provided by 3rd generation liquid-cooled NMC batteries from BorgWarner (Akasol). The battery pack has a total capacity of 294 kWh and can be charged in up to 2 hours with 150 kW. The Voith VEDS HD (Heavy Duty) central motor drive system has a peak power of 410 kW and a maximum efficiency of 97.3%. The heat pump thermal management system is supplied by Eberspächer, the electro-hydraulic servo pump by DANA and the electrically driven compressor by Knorr-Bremse. With the ZF-branded driver assistance systems based on radar and camera sensors, Electronells will comply with the GSR (European Union's General Safety Regulation).