First version has 243kW/h of energy storage but more will follow; opportunity charging is an option
Daimler Buses unveiled its electric-powered Mercedes-Benz Citaro in Stuttgart on Monday (5 March) with the claim that it takes electromobility in buses “to a new level.”
Up to ten lithium-ion batteries, split between the rear and the roof of the bus, give a maximum of 243kW/h of energy storage, although Daimler says that figure will increase considerably over coming years.
The initial range is 150km with depot charging. While that is lower than figures touted by other OEMs, Daimler stresses that it is a reliable measurement that takes into account the requirements of both heating in sub-zero temperatures, and air-conditioning.
With no need for either and under other favourable conditions, range on the first generation of electric Citaro could theoretically be 250km; Daimler’s medium-term ambition is to offer that, but reliably under all weather and driving scenarios, using 300kW/h of energy storage.
It promises that subsequent developments will “clearly surpass” both of those figures. Hub motors as part of a ZF AVE 130 axle transmit power, and the electric Citaro retains a full low-floor layout; it can carry up to 80 passengers.
Opportunity charging via pantograph will also be offered at first, but Head of Product Engineering Gustav Tuschen believes that it will “be a thing of the past” by 2030 as a vertically-integrated strategy allows Daimler to develop the electric Citaro quickly. “This is not a collection of off-the-shelf parts,” he says. “The relevant components are perfectly matched and networked.”
A right-hand drive electric Citaro will be here in two years’ time. UK models will come complete with the roof-mounted heating and air-conditioning unit that regulates cab, saloon and battery temperatures. It has been the subject of considerable work to minimise energy consumption and it includes a ‘heat pump’ to maintain saloon temperature.
Full report in next week’s issue of routeone
