The authorities of the Brazilian state of Goiás, assisted by Enel X, introduced a 100% electric bus to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of public transportation with electrified fleets.
The tests will be carried out on the streets of the metropolitan region of Goiânia, a city with transportation services more than 10 years old.
Enel X, through Metrobus – Goiânia’s transport operator that serves the Anhanguera axis – expressed the interest, in partnership with the state government, to modernize the bus fleet with electric vehicles.
During the experience month, the operational indicators of modal maintenance and the functioning of the electronic tracking system on the Eixo Anhanguera line and extensions will be evaluated.
It will also serve to verify the charging time, vehicle autonomy and operating cost, as well as the possible challenges of an electric fleet.
Prototype Specifications
The electric vehicle belongs to the Chinese company Build Your Dreams (BYD), and after passing this first stage, it is expected that a total of more than 100 buses will be incorporated into the fleet.
Each machine saves 110 tons of carbon per year, has a range of 250 kilometers, and is equipped with air conditioning, cell phone chargers, and was developed with pneumatic suspension on all axles, providing more comfort for users.
It has four electric motors with a maximum power of 804 hp and a charging time up to 5 hours. According to the manufacturer, the iron phosphate battery is fireproof. The vehicle is 23 meters long, with a capacity to carry 170 passengers (59 seated) and space reserved for wheelchair users. Its energy consumption is equivalent to 1.2 kWh/km.
“This is the first electric bus we bring to Goiás, and for Enel X, it is a great privilege to participate in this historic milestone in the state,” declared Carlos Eduardo Cardoso, Director of the company.
He emphasized that urban electric mobility is fundamental for smart city development integrating sustainability and connectivity, at the service of the population’s well-being and quality of life.
The initiative is part of the project “The Future is Now: Introducing the Modernization of the Anhanguera Axis”.
It should be noted that other major Brazilian cities, such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte, are also carrying out this kind of pilot projects, aimed at replacing the current fleet of vehicles in public transportation, which has high levels of carbon dioxide emissions.
