Karlsruhe bus fleet begins electrification

In Karlsruhe – the third largest city in Baden-Württemberg – signs point to a mobility transition. The VBK fleet, consisting of 53 diesel buses, is set to become electric in the coming years. The supervisory board of Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe (VBK) has approved the procurement of twelve E-buses with an investment volume of around 7.2 million euros, which have been ordered from the manufacturer MAN.

The solo electric buses of the Lion’s City 12 E model are to be gradually deployed on VBK lines 60, 62, and 70 from the beginning. According to the transport company, there is an option to order additional E-buses from MAN in the future to convert the fleet. However, for this additional investment, renewed "green light" from the supervisory boards is required.

“Karlsruhe is now going electric on the road as well. With every new electric bus we put on the road in the future, we are making an important contribution to better air quality, less noise, and more quality of life in our fan-shaped city,” says Prof. Alexander Pischon, Chairman of the VBK Management Board.

Details

The 12-m electric buses MAN Lion’s City 12 E are equipped with 39 seats and travel at a maximum speed of 90 km/h. The total battery capacity is 480 kWh, guaranteeing a range of at least 250 km at any time, according to the accompanying press release. The MAN electric buses are charged with green electricity from Stadtwerke Karlsruhe via plug overnight on the premises of the new workshop at the West depot. The facility is designed for up to 32 electric buses.

The interior of the barrier-free, low-floor electric buses is generously dimensioned and has a level floor that only has slight steps at the rear of the vehicle – a modern color scheme and durable materials create a pleasant atmosphere.

For easy orientation, the priority seats for passengers with reduced mobility and families are clearly marked with distinct colors. The electric buses also have spacious multifunctional areas for wheelchairs, strollers, or bicycles with grab bars on three sides, each equipped with a stop request button. USB sockets between the seats complete the equipment.