Scania Provides Biodiesel And Electric Buses For Iskandar Malaysia Bus Rapid Transit Evaluation
Scania has provided the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) with buses for pilot-testing of renewable fuels and electrification solutions for public transportation. The evaluation of these buses is meant for the study of the Iskandar Malaysia Bus Rapid Transit (IMBRT) system, which was officially launched recently by the Johor Mentri Besar, YAB Datuk Ir Haji Hasni Haji Muhammad, who is also co-Chairman of IRDA. The Scania buses will be tested over a 20 km loop route. One of them is a 10-metre long bus running on biodiesel, while another is a 12-metre electric development project for IRDA’s technical team only. There is also a 15-metre high capacity bus available for test ride only for IRDA.
The 10-metre Biodiesel Bus from Scania that is capable of operating on B100 (100%) biodiesel. FAME-prepared Scania buses can run on all blends of diesel and biodiesel, ranging from B10, B20 and even up to B100. FAME is the abbreviation for “Fatty Acid Methyl Esters”, the technical term for biodiesel produced in Malaysia.
The FAME buses are environmentally-friendly, and help to lower global emissions by reducing CO2 thus limiting the effects of climate change. The usage of this form of biodiesel bus also helps to support the palm oil industry and smallholders.
Meanwhile, the 12-metre Electric Bus development project by Scania and Partners eliminates tailpipe emission and lowers noise pollution with an electric drive train. The operation is more efficient, and the ride more comfortable and safe, creating a more positive passenger experience. With brighter and more spacious interior due to a simpler yet advanced setup, it is easier to maintain and keep clean.
Additionally, the 15-metre High Capacity Bus from Scania helps to increase revenue and lower costs for operators. It comes with additional seats for passengers, air suspension, steered rear axle, built-in safety systems such as Electronic Braking System (EBS), Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB), Manual and Automatic Retarder System, and Speed Limiter. These features make for a safer and more comfortable ride for passengers and eases the stress on bus drivers in an urban environment.
Furthermore, the Scania Ecolution partnership option can help commercial vehicle operators lower fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. This is a win-win condition where profit does not have to be sacrificed to limit the effects of climate change.
“Scania’s purpose is to take the lead in driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system. Our participation in today’s event is a testament of Scania’s on-going drive towards achieving our far-reaching 2050 commitment in reducing the carbon footprint to net zero,” stated Heba.
