A latest generation battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eCitaro demonstrator has completed evaluation with Isle of Man Transport via Bus Vannin in a second all-electric Mercedes-Benz bus trial for the operator.
The bus covered more than 800 miles over a 13-day period. It is equipped with NMC3 batteries that supplier Daimler Buses UK says gives higher energy capacity to maximise range. Parent Daimler Buses has previously said that NMC3 batteries in the eCitaro are designed to last for 4,000 charging cycles when charged “conscientiously” at a depot.
During its stay with Bus Vannin, the latest generation eCitaro returned an average energy consumption of 1.19kWh per km in real-world conditions, while its intelligent thermal management system saw the interior temperature average a claimed 21.4 degrees centigrade “regardless of outdoor climate,” the dealership continues.
While on the Isle of Man, the eCitaro demonstrator ran alongside diesel Citaros and mild hybrid examples. Six of the latter were delivered in 2020, with that diesel-electric package using a compact battery module to reduce engine load and operate in zero-emission mode at low road speeds.
The latest eCitaro demonstrator was registered earlier this year. “With modular technology, the introduction of an NMC3 battery eCitaro to the Daimler Buses UK demonstrator fleet bears testament to parent company Daimler Buses’ commitment to delivering the very latest in battery technology to the market,” the Coventry dealership continues.
Speaking about the demonstration with Bus Vannin, Daimler Buses UK e-Mobility Manager Adrian Felton says: “We are delighted to support Isle of Man Transport once more in its drive towards electromobility.
“The latest iteration of eCitaro, with NMC3 batteries, impressed those behind the wheel and back at base. While the greater range is a clear benefit for the operator, the reduced number of charging intervals as a result made a noticeable improvement on how deployable the bus can be.”
