FlixBus to test electric coach in real conditions

Flix, the parent company of FlixBus, is to work with Daimler to develop an electric long-distance coach solution.

The operator is to be involved in testing of this technology on two prototype PCVs in real conditions, leveraging on the expertise of Flix in managing its worldwide coach network. Flix is to continuously evaluate performances to ascertain in real time that all needed requirements are fulfilled to ensure operational efficiency, with a view to a long-term scalability to the FlixBus fleet.

A holistic approach is being taken in developing this technology, taking into account a highly diverse range of factors. A modular drive will be conceived considering key parameters such as energy consumption, reach, driving performance and battery life, to be then related with cost-effectiveness, environmental impact and overall eligibility for usage in today’s bus market.

“We believe in carbon neutrality for bus travel as a solution to de-carbonise travel completely” – André Schwämmlein, founder and CEO of Flix

André Schwämmlein, founder and CEO of Flix, said: “We believe in carbon neutrality for bus travel as a solution to de-carbonise travel completely. Since we launched FlixBus, we have been striving to reduce our environmental impact over and over by investigating alternative drives and enabling offsetting of our carbon footprint.

“With Daimler Buses and reliable research partners, sharing our vision of a greener future in transportation, we can now pursue another milestone towards our goal of reshaping mobility and offering green, technology-driven and still affordable travel solutions to everyone to discover the world.”

Combining long-haul efficiency and operational flexibility while securing charging opportunities and an adequate capacity for passengers and luggage are the biggest challenges to overcome in this project.