Tuesday 1 November 2016

Euro Bus Expo - Launch of Volvo B5LHC

World Premiere for Volvo B5LHC Double Deck Electric Hybrid


The latest bus in the growing Volvo Electromobility range

 The B5LHC has bodywork produced by Wrights

The Volvo B5LHC Double Deck builds on the success of the Volvo 7900 Single Deck Electric Hybrid bus launched in 2014. The B5LHC Electric Hybrid driveline is an extension of the well-proven technology used as standard in the Volvo B5LH Hybrid. The difference lies in a more powerful electric motor, increased capacity Lithium Ion battery rated at 19kWh and equipment for opportunity charging.

The new Volvo B5LHC has the abilty to operate with zero tail pipe emissions in electric mode for around 7 kms between charging meaning less noise and cleaner air not only on the route but at bus stops and end termini. Once outside city centre zero emissions zones, the B5LHC has the ability to perform as an efficient hybrid vehicle, giving greater flexibility and operating range. Designed with regenerative braking, energy usually lost to braking is recovered to further enhance efficiencies and extend the electric range.

  Leon Daniels. Managing Director, Surface Transport TfL at the
 launch of the Volvo B5LHC
The B5LHC shares the same conductive opportunity charging system used on the full Electric 7900E and Electric Hybrid 7900EH vehicles, giving flexibility and interoperability for operators and local authorities. Charging is fully automated and takes between three and six minutes. The infrastructure creates new opportunities for urban planning, for example allowing for the design of indoor bus termini.
The charging system can be integrated into any part of the city streetscape; each charging solution includes the complete interface between the power network, the energy supplier, the equipment and the vehicle.

It uses a pantograph which makes physical contact with the bus from above. This optimises charging efficiency and provides the ability to safely charge whilst passengers embark and disembark. All moving parts are integrated into the charging system, while the contact rails on the bus are fixed-mount connectors. This minimises the need for additional maintenance on the bus and reduces vehicle weight, which in turn increases passenger capacity and vehicle efficiency.


The launch vehicle – which has been built to Transport for London (TfL) specification and features the SRM body style developed by Wrightbus – is scheduled for evaluation in London during 2017. Certified with a passenger capacity of 87, the new Electric Hybrid Double Deck has 43 seats on the top deck with 17 seats in the lower saloon to a two-door specification.

More to follow from Euro Bus Expo - keep checking this website