How the eCitaro G Fuel Cell Bus and Hydrogen Projects are Transforming Public Transport

Public transport is a vital service for millions of people around the world. It provides mobility, accessibility, and convenience for urban and rural residents alike. However, public transport also has a significant environmental impact, contributing to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise levels in cities.

Many public transport operators are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and improve their energy efficiency to address these challenges. One of the most promising solutions is using electric buses, which can offer zero-emission, low-noise, and cost-effective transportation. However, electric buses also face some limitations, such as the need for frequent charging, the availability of charging infrastructure, and the range and performance of the batteries.

This is where the Mercedes-Benz eCitaro G fuel cell bus comes in. This innovative vehicle combines the benefits of electric buses with the advantages of fuel cell technology, which uses hydrogen as a clean and renewable energy source. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus is the world’s first series-production vehicle of its kind, and it has been delivered to Rhein-Neckar-Verkehr GmbH (rnv), a public transport operator in the Rhine-Neckar region of Germany. In this article, we will explore how the eCitaro G fuel cell bus works, what benefits it offers, and how rnv is using it to transform its fleet and service.

What is the eCitaro G fuel cell bus?

The eCitaro G fuel cell bus is a fully electric articulated bus that can carry up to 145 passengers. It has a length of 18.13 meters, a width of 2.55 meters, and a height of 3.4 meters. It weighs about 19.5 tons and has a maximum speed of 80 km/h.

The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro G fuel cell bus is powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, that deliver a total output of 300 kW. The electric motors are fed by two energy sources: a high-performance battery and a fuel cell system. The battery has a capacity of 33.4 kWh and is located on the roof of the bus. The fuel cell system consists of two modules, each with a power of 60 kW, and is also located on the roof of the bus. The fuel cell system converts hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and water and acts as a range extender for the battery. The hydrogen is stored in ten tanks, each with a capacity of 40 liters, and is also located on the bus’s roof. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus has a total hydrogen storage capacity of 30 kg.

The eCitaro G fuel cell bus has a range of up to 400 kilometers on one charge, depending on the operating conditions and the route profile. This is significantly higher than the range of conventional electric buses, which typically require charging every 100 to 200 kilometers. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can be charged at the depot using a plug-in connector or a pressure nozzle at hydrogen filling stations. The charging time for the battery is about two hours, and the refueling time for the hydrogen tanks is about 15 minutes.

The eCitaro G fuel cell bus is equipped with various features and systems that enhance its safety, comfort, and efficiency. Some of these include:

• An intelligent thermal management system that optimizes the energy consumption and the temperature of the battery and the fuel cell system.
• A regenerative braking system that recovers kinetic energy and feeds it back to the battery.
• A predictive energy management system that adapts the driving strategy and the energy consumption to the route and the traffic conditions.
• A digital cockpit that displays relevant information and alerts to the driver.
• A multimedia system that provides entertainment and information to the passengers.
• A wheelchair ramp and a kneeling function facilitate the boarding and alighting of passengers with reduced mobility.
• A fire detection and suppression system that protects the battery and the fuel cell system from potential hazards.

What are the benefits of the eCitaro G fuel cell bus?

The eCitaro G fuel cell bus offers several benefits for the environment, the public transport operator, and the passengers. Some of these benefits are:

• Zero-emission: The eCitaro G fuel cell bus does not emit any harmful substances, such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matter, that contribute to air pollution and climate change. The only by-product of the fuel cell system is water, which can be reused or discharged. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can reduce the carbon footprint of public transport by up to 90% compared to diesel buses, depending on the hydrogen and the electricity source.
• Low-noise: The eCitaro G fuel cell bus operates with minimal noise, as the electric motors and the fuel cell system are very quiet. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can reduce noise pollution and stress levels in urban areas, and improve the quality of life for the residents and the passengers.
• Cost-effective: The eCitaro G fuel cell bus has lower operating and maintenance costs than diesel buses, as it consumes less energy and requires less servicing. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can also benefit from lower taxes and fees, as well as subsidies and incentives, that are available for zero-emission vehicles in some regions. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can achieve a total cost of ownership that is comparable to or lower than diesel buses, depending on the usage and the infrastructure.
• Comfortable: The eCitaro G fuel cell bus offers a comfortable and pleasant ride for the passengers, as it has a spacious and ergonomic interior, a smooth and stable performance, and a low noise and vibration level. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus also provides a modern and attractive design, a high level of safety, and a user-friendly multimedia system.

How is rnv using the eCitaro G fuel cell bus?

rnv is one of Germany’s leading public transport operators, serving more than 600,000 passengers daily in the cities of Mannheim, Ludwigshafen, and Heidelberg, as well as the surrounding areas. rnv has a fleet of about 400 buses, 200 trams, and 30 light rail vehicles and operates more than 80 lines with a total length of about 1,000 kilometers.

rnv has a vision of becoming a pioneer and a role model for sustainable public transport in the Rhine-Neckar region and beyond. rnv has set itself the goal of converting its entire vehicle fleet to locally emission-free drives by 2032. To achieve this goal, rnv has invested in electric buses since 2019, when it ordered 80 battery-electric eCitaro solo buses from Mercedes-Benz. The first 40 of these buses have been delivered and are in operation, while the remaining 40 are expected to be delivered by April 2022.

In October 2022, rnv placed another order for 48 eCitaro G fuel cell articulated buses from Mercedes-Benz, making it the first customer in the world to receive this innovative vehicle. The first three of these buses were delivered and handed over on November 23, 2023, in a ceremony attended by representatives from the state government, the city councils, and the media. The other 45 buses will be delivered successively by mid-2025. rnv also has an option for an additional 27 eCitaro G fuel cell buses, which could increase its total quota to 75 by 2027 if required.

rnv plans to use the eCitaro G fuel cell buses mainly on the lines with high demand and a long distance, such as the line 5 that connects Mannheim and Heidelberg. The eCitaro G fuel cell buses will replace the diesel buses that are currently used on these lines and will offer a more environmentally friendly, reliable, and comfortable service to the passengers. rnv expects to save about 1,500 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year by using the eCitaro G fuel cell buses.

rnv is also involved in two hydrogen projects that aim to support developing and deploying hydrogen mobility in the region. The first project is called H2Rhein-Neckar, and it is funded by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure. The project involves the construction of a hydrogen production plant in Mannheim, which will use renewable energy sources to produce green hydrogen. The plant will supply hydrogen to rnv and other partners, such as the local utility company MVV, the chemical company BASF, and the car manufacturer Daimler. The plant is expected to start operation in 2024 and will produce about 1,800 tons of hydrogen per year.

The second project is called H2Rivers, and it is funded by the European Union. The project involves developing and testing a hydrogen-powered push boat, which will transport goods along the Rhine river. The push boat will use the same fuel cell system as the eCitaro G fuel cell bus and can carry up to 16 barges with a total load of 2,000 tons. The push boat will also use the same hydrogen filling stations as the eCitaro G fuel cell bus and will demonstrate the feasibility and the benefits of hydrogen mobility for inland waterways. The push boat is expected to be ready for operation in 2025.

rnv is confident that the eCitaro G fuel cell bus and the hydrogen projects will help it achieve its sustainability goals and enhance its reputation as a pioneer and a role model for sustainable public transport in the Rhine-Neckar region and beyond. rnv believes that the eCitaro G fuel cell bus and the hydrogen projects will also create new opportunities and synergies for the local economy, industry, and society.

Conclusion

The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro G fuel cell bus is a groundbreaking vehicle that combines the benefits of electric buses with the advantages of fuel cell technology. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus offers zero-emission, low-noise, cost-effective transportation and a comfortable and pleasant ride for the passengers. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus has a range of up to 400 kilometers on one charge, significantly higher than conventional electric buses. The eCitaro G fuel cell bus can be charged at the depot or at hydrogen filling stations and uses hydrogen as a clean and renewable energy source. @via https://linktr.ee/electriccar.

How to Choose the Best Fiat Scudo for Your Business Needs

The Fiat Scudo is a versatile and reliable commercial vehicle that offers a range of options to suit different business needs. Whether you need a panel van, a passenger transport, or a special body, the Scudo has you covered. But how do you choose the best Fiat Scudo for your business? Here are some factors to consider:

Electric vs Diesel: Which One is Right for You?

The Fiat Scudo is available with either an electric or a diesel engine. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and requirements.

Electric Scudo

The electric Scudo is Fiat’s first commercial electric vehicle in Brazil. It features a 75 kWh battery with a best-in-class fuel range of up to 330 km. It also has a 100 kW electric motor that delivers 136 hp and can reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h.

The electric Scudo has several benefits, such as:

• Zero CO2 emissions and free access to low emission zones
• Reduced charging times and lower maintenance costs
• Smooth and responsive driving experience
• Enhanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning

However, the electric Scudo also has some drawbacks, such as:

• Higher initial price than the diesel version
• Limited availability of charging stations in some areas
• Lower payload capacity than the diesel version (up to 1.2 tons vs up to 1.4 tons)

Diesel Scudo

The diesel Scudo offers four different engine types, with three power steps and dual transmission options: manual or 8-speed automatic. The most powerful engine is the Multijet 3, which produces 120 hp and 300 Nm of torque. The diesel engines are compliant with Euro 6D-Final emission standards.

The diesel Scudo has several benefits, such as:

• Lower initial price than the electric version
• Higher availability of spare parts and service centers
• Higher payload capacity than the electric version (up to 1.4 tons vs up to 1.2 tons)
• More torque at lower speeds

However, the diesel Scudo also has some drawbacks, such as:

• Higher CO2 emissions and higher fuel consumption than the electric version
• Higher noise levels and vibration levels than the electric version
• Potential health risks from exposure to exhaust fumes

Body Style: Which One is Right for You?

The Fiat Scudo comes in three body styles: L1 (short wheelbase), L2 (medium wheelbase), and L3 (long wheelbase). The body style affects the load volume, load height, load width, load length, passenger capacity, passenger comfort, passenger safety, and maneuverability.

L1 Body Style

The L1 body style is ideal for small businesses that need a compact and agile vehicle. It measures 4.60 meters in length, 1.90 meters in height, 2.50 meters in width and has a load volume of up to 4.6 cubic meters. It can comfortably accommodate up to two passengers with air conditioning and power windows. It can also be equipped with various accessories for extra functionality.

However, the L1 body style also has some limitations, such as:

• Limited visibility due to low roofline
• Limited stability due to short wheelbase
• Limited flexibility due to fixed rear doors

L2 Body Style

The L2 body style is ideal for medium-sized businesses that need a versatile and spacious vehicle. It measures five meters in length, one meter in height (or one meter in height with an optional roof rack), two meters in width (or two meters in width with an optional side door), and has a load volume of up to five cubic meters. It can accommodate up to nine passengers comfortably with air conditioning and power windows. It can also be equipped with various accessories for extra functionality.

However, the L2 body style also has some limitations, such as:

• Higher initial price than the L1 body style
• Higher fuel consumption than the L1 body style
• Lower maneuverability than the L1 body style due to longer wheelbase

L3 Body Style

The L3 body style is ideal for large businesses that need a robust and reliable vehicle. It measures five.30 meters in length, one meter in height (or one meter in height with an optional roof rack), two meters in width (or two meters in width with an optional side door), and has a load volume of up to six cubic meters. It can accommodate up to nine passengers comfortably with air conditioning and power windows. It can also be equipped with various accessories for extra functionality.

However, the L3 body style also has some limitations, such as:

• Higher initial price than the L2 body style
• Higher fuel consumption than the L2 body style
• Lower maneuverability than the L2 body style due to longer wheelbase

Conclusion: How to Choose the Best Fiat Scudo for Your Business Needs

The Fiat Scudo is a great choice for any business that needs a reliable and versatile commercial vehicle. However, to choose the best Fiat Scudo for your business needs, you need to consider several factors, such as:

• Electric vs diesel: which one is right for you?
• Body style: which one is right for you?

By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can find the best Fiat Scudo that suits your preferences and requirements. You can also customize your Fiat Scudo with various accessories and features to enhance its functionality and performance.

The Fiat Scudo is available to order now, with prices starting from $24,000 for the electric version and $18,000 for the diesel version. To learn more about the Fiat Scudo and its specifications, visit the official Fiat Professional website or contact your nearest dealer.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment below. Thank you for reading! 😊 @via Gerane.

Why the Peugeot e-Traveller Allure is the ultimate electric van for transport professionals

The Peugeot e-Traveller Allure is a new electric van that offers a spacious, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to transport passengers and goods. Whether you are a taxi driver, a shuttle service provider, or a delivery business owner, the e-Traveller Allure has something for you. Here are some of the features and benefits of this innovative vehicle.

Electric powertrain and performance

The Peugeot e-Traveller Allure is powered by a 100kW electric motor and a 50kWh battery pack that can deliver up to 143 miles of range on a single charge. The battery can be recharged in as little as 30 minutes using a 100kW rapid charger or in five hours using a 7.4kW wallbox. The e-Traveller Allure also supports regenerative braking, which recovers energy when decelerating and braking and extends the driving range.

The electric powertrain provides smooth and quiet driving, with no vibrations or engine noise. The Peugeot electric van also has three driving modes to suit different situations: Eco, Normal, and Power. Eco mode optimizes energy consumption by reducing the power output and the air conditioning performance. Normal mode offers a balanced performance for everyday driving. Power mode boosts the power output and the torque for optimal performance when carrying heavy loads or driving on steep slopes.

Practicality and versatility

The e-Traveller Allure is available in two lengths: Standard (4.95m) and Long (5.30m). Both versions can accommodate up to eight passengers, with a modular seating configuration that allows for various arrangements. The seats can be folded, removed, or slid on rails to create more space for luggage or cargo. The e-Traveller Allure also has a large sliding side door and a tailgate that opens up to 180 degrees for easy access.

The e-Traveller Allure has a generous load volume of up to 4.4 cubic meters in the Standard version and up to 4.9 cubic meters in the Long version. The maximum payload is 1,000kg in both versions. The e-Traveller Allure also has a towing capacity of up to 1,000kg, which is rare for an electric van. The e-Traveller Allure can handle various types of cargo, from suitcases and boxes to bikes and furniture.

Comfort and convenience

The e-Traveller Allure is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient ride for both the driver and the passengers. The driver’s seat is adjustable in height, reach, and lumbar support and has an armrest and a headrest. The steering wheel is also adjustable in height and reach. The dashboard has a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 3.5-inch digital instrument cluster that displays key information such as speed, battery level, and driving range. The e-Traveller Allure also has a head-up display that projects essential data, such as speed, navigation, and safety alerts, onto the windscreen.

The passengers can enjoy a spacious and airy cabin with plenty of headroom and legroom. The e-Traveller Allure also has a panoramic glass roof that lets in natural light and offers a view of the sky. The roof has an electric sunblind that can be closed for privacy or shade. The e-Traveller Allure also has a dual-zone automatic climate control system that keeps the cabin at a comfortable temperature and a rear ventilation system that ensures good air circulation. The e-Traveller Allure also has multiple USB ports and 12V sockets throughout the cabin, as well as a wireless smartphone charging pad in the front.

Safety and Security

The e-Traveller Allure is equipped with advanced safety and security features that make driving easier and safer. Some of these features include:

• Adaptive cruise control: This system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and adjusts the speed according to the traffic flow. It can also stop and restart the vehicle automatically in stop-and-go traffic.
• Lane departure warning: This system warns the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane without signaling, and applies corrective steering if necessary.
• Blind spot monitoring: This system alerts the driver if there is a vehicle in the blind spot, and prevents the driver from changing lanes if it is unsafe.
• Active safety brake: This system detects potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, and applies the brakes automatically if the driver does not react in time.
• Hill start assist: This system prevents the vehicle from rolling back when starting on a slope.
• Electric parking brake: This system automatically engages and disengages the parking brake, and also has a hill hold function.

The e-Traveller Allure also has a high level of security, with features such as:

• Keyless entry and start: This system allows the driver to unlock and start the vehicle without using the key, as long as the key is within range.
• Immobilizer: This system prevents the vehicle from being started without the correct key.
• Alarm: This system sounds an alarm and flashes the lights if the vehicle is tampered with.

Comparison with other electric vans

The e-Traveller Allure is not the only electric van on the market, but it stands out for its combination of range, practicality, comfort, and safety. Here is a comparison table with some of its main competitors:

Model	Range	Load volume	Payload	Towing capacity	Price
Peugeot e-Traveller Allure	143 miles	4.4-4.9 cubic meters	1,000kg	1,000kg	$54,000
Renault Kangoo E-Tech	186 miles	3.3-4.9 cubic meters	800kg	N/A	$40,000
Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo	258 miles	6.6 cubic meters	800kg	N/A	$60,000
Mercedes EQV	213 miles	6.1 cubic meters	1,030kg	N/A	$80,000

As you can see, the e-Traveller Allure offers a competitive range, a generous load volume and payload, and a rare towing capacity. It is also more affordable than the Volkswagen and the Mercedes, and more spacious and versatile than the Renault.

Conclusion

The Peugeot e-Traveller Allure is a great choice for transport professionals who want to go green without compromising on performance, practicality, comfort, or safety. It offers a decent range, a spacious and modular cabin, a smooth and quiet driving experience, and many advanced features. It is also cheaper to run and maintain than a diesel van and is exempt from emission charges and taxes. If you are looking for an electric van that can do it all, the e-Traveller Allure might be the one for you.

The new fully electric commercial vehicle: Ford E-Transit

The new fully electric Ford E-Transit had its European public debut at the commercial vehicle exhibition in Birmingham, England. Ford’s first battery-electric commercial vehicle combines maximum productivity with cutting-edge technology, such as enhanced driver assistance systems and the cutting-edge communication and entertainment system SYNC 4, which features a cloud-based connection. The new Ford E-Transit will be available for order in the fourth quarter, with the first electric vans arriving in spring 2022. The prices will be published in due course. Ford will also be demonstrating the FORDLiive service, which is offered free of charge for maximizing uptime in connected Ford commercial vehicles equipped with a FordPass Connect modem, at its exhibit. Visitors to the Birmingham trade show may also learn more about Ford Service Pro. It is a service that allows dealers to better assist their commercial vehicle clients, such as by utilizing Ford specialists to diagnose complicated vehicle problems and design efficient solutions, saving time and money.

Ford E-Transit

The E-Transit, the first fully electric version of the global bestseller in the light commercial vehicle segment, offers unlimited loading volume. Its combined range is expected to be up to 317 kilometers according to the WLTP driving cycle. Supplied by a 67 kWh battery, the electric motor of the E-Transit mobilizes an output of 198 kW (269 hp) and a torque of 430 Newton meters. Furthermore, the onboard power supply converts the E-Transit into a transportable 2.3 kWh power source, allowing customers to use electrical equipment and charging gadgets on building sites, for example.

“The new E-Transit system will be a game-changer. When users move to completely electric fleets, connected services, and innovative technology will streamline their companies and boost their productivity, “Hans Schep, Ford of Europe’s general manager, Commercial Vehicles, stated. “The E-Transit is an all-around persuasive proposition for European enterprises due to its reasonable cost, which should erase any economic worries.”

From the chassis to the panel van: the new E-Transit can be ordered in a variety of configuration options with different wheelbases and roof heights and a gross vehicle weight of 3.5 to 4.25 tons. Its standard FordPass Connect modem allows a high level of connectivity. Over-The-Air Updates (OTA) update the navigation system and other functions.

The Ford E-Transit is offered in the equipment series “Basis” and “Trend.” Both variations impress with much more equipment than the respective diesel counterparts. The “Basic” model already has electronic temperature control, SYNC 4 with a 12-inch touchscreen display, keyless Ford power start, heated seats, heated windshield, and heated, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, as well as connection via FordPass Connect -Modem.

The Ford Trend equipment variation is distinguished by crucial standard extra capabilities such as a networked Ford navigation system, cruise control, Pre Collision Assist with pedestrian recognition, lane warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and a Park Pilot system.

The new Ford E-Transit introduces the new Ford SYNC 4 communication and entertainment system into Ford’s European range of commercial vehicles. For users, this means twice the computing power compared to the previous generation Ford SYNC 3. It is controlled via an easy-to-use 12-inch touchscreen. The new, cloud-connected navigation function1 of Ford SYNC 4 can plan efficient routes considering the traffic situation, the location of charging stations, and other parameters. In addition, an intelligent range preview considers real-time data on driving habits, weather, and road conditions for the most precise possible indication of the remaining battery capacity. Extended voice control and a connection2 to Amazon Alexa are also available.

Ford E-Transit

Battery charging is one of the most pressing issues for electric cars. Ford provides a comprehensive package to assist customers with charging operations, whether at the office location or on the road in daily work. This service is overseen by a team of Ford Pro professionals who will be accessible to consumers in Ford’s key European markets beginning in October. Companies may plan and improve their loading times using both hardware and software solutions.

Ford Telematics is another service that allows fleet clients to smoothly handle payments at public charging stations via the Ford charging network, as well as compensation for employees who charge vehicles at home. Drivers can also organize charging on the go with the Ford Charge Assist app, which is integrated into the SYNC 4 system of the Ford E-Transit and accessible via the 12-inch touchscreen. The E-Transit can be charged from 15 percent to 80 percent in around 35 minutes using a 115 kW fast charger. On a regular 230-volt AC power source, a complete overnight charge takes little more than eight hours.

Ford Pro recently announced the purchase of Electriphi, a prominent provider of electric car charging management and fleet software. In the future, the digital Electriphi platform will expand the number of charging applications available to European clients.

For businesses wanting to transition to electric cars, the new Ford E-Transit offers some tempting purchasing incentives. Aside from considerable fuel savings, Ford expects that vehicle service maintenance and repair costs will be 40% cheaper than equivalent diesel vehicles. According to Ford data, the sum of all E-Transit expenses in Great Britain and Germany is lower overall than for corresponding competitor products with diesel engines.

Ford provides a one-year service interval with no mileage limits for the new E-Transit, as well as an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty on all electrical high-voltage (HV) components. A one-year breakdown support plan for electric vehicles is also available, which includes emergency vehicle charging when the battery runs out. When it is released, the Europe-wide Ford service network, which includes 1,500 e-vehicle-certified dealers and over 4,500 approved workshops, will have all of the essential servicing capacity.

The new Ford E-Transit service is completely integrated with FORDLiive. It is a no-cost productivity service aimed at increasing the uptime of connected Ford commercial vehicles. The option, which will be available by the end of 2021, would minimize service-related downtime and downtime in Ford commercial vehicles connected with a FordPass Connect modem by implementing more intelligent and efficient maintenance and repair work management. This implies fewer preventable breakdowns, fewer visits to the workshop, and speedier repairs for these clients, increasing their production. The technology employs real-time vehicle data and connects merchants and fleet clients to the Transit Center network and the automotive manufacturer itself.

The new, all-electric Ford E-Transit is already in use in several European countries.

Depending on the location, different e-transit variants with a permissible total weight between 3.5 and 4.25 tons are used as test vehicles, including chassis with refrigerated and box bodies, tippers, and flatbed vehicles. The partially specialized conversions reflect the complex requirements Ford Transit commercial vehicles have always had to meet in everyday work. @via Ford.