BOGESTRA (Bochum-Gelsenkirchener Straßenbahnen) and HCR (Straßenbahn Herne-Castrop-Rauxel), two of Germany’s leading Public Transport Operators (PTOs), have taken delivery of the first vehicle in a joint fleet order for 22 eBuses from BYD – the world’s leading eBus manufacturer. The handover brings about a landmark moment for BYD as it begins fleet deliveries to a public transport provider in Germany for the first time.
Despite the recent COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, deliveries remain on schedule for completion in October 2020. As a producer of face-masks and hygiene products following the coronavirus outbreak, BYD is also donating a consignment of face-masks to be used by BOGESTRA’s and HCR’s passengers, as part of the PTOs’ hygiene regulations. BYD continues its commitment to producing PPE equipment and to contribute for the safety of public transport across Europe.
The new pure-electric, emissions-free 12-metre BYD eBus fleet will go into service in the Germany state of North Rhine-Westphalia, on route 380 in Gelsenkirchen and route 354 in Bochum. BYD’s 12-metre single-deck eBus delivers a total carrying capacity of 80 passengers and boasts a single charge range of over 200km.
With 22 representing a significant number of vehicles, the BYD eBus fleet is expected to make a substantial contribution to improving air quality in the densely populated area of Gelsenkirchen, Bochum and Herne.
