CMF converts airport bus to natural gas hybrid drive

Pilot project – the start-up CM Fluids (CMF) has retrofitted a used passenger bus from Munich Airport with a generator-electric drive, allowing passengers to now commute CO₂-neutrally on the airport grounds. During the conversion of the shuttle bus, the conventional drive axle was replaced with an electric one. A Webasto buffer battery, which stores both the electricity generated by the bus motor acting as a range extender and the energy recovered during braking through recuperation, ensures the necessary power supply. It is charged by a small gas engine. Liquid methane serves as the fuel for the bus engine – over 500 liters can be refueled in five minutes, according to Webasto. The range of the shuttle bus is specified to be up to 800 km.

“The project with CM Fluids is a successful example of how retrofitting with battery systems can combine the advantages of an internal combustion engine with those of an electric drive,” said Heike Niehues, globally responsible for the aftermarket business at Webasto.

With 90% less particulate matter compared to diesel EURO VI engines and more than 60% fewer nitrogen oxides, the concept significantly improves air quality at the airport.

Further information at https://www.webasto-electrified.com/int/