SHAH ALAM: Volvo Buses and local bus and coach bodywork builder Gemilang International Ltd has jointly launched the all-new, flagship Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range electric bus.
The series is Volvo’s first and locally-built low-floor, two-door, premium class, city electric bus in Malaysia.
During the launch here, Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd signed an agreement with Volvo Buses Malaysia to implement a trial operation involving the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range for Rapid KL bus service.
Muhammad Yazurin (left) and Mak exchanging documents.
Representing Rapid Bus was its chief executive officer Muhammad Yazurin Sallij while Volvo Buses Malaysia was represented by its country manager Marcus Mak.
The trial operation is targeted to commence this July and is expected to take place for at least six months to a year, whereby one unit of the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range electric bus will run on Route 581 which is the Desa Tasik – LRT Bandar Tasik Selatan trip.
Built on the Volvo BZL 4x2 chassis variant, which is renowned for its globally proven electric driveline, the locally-built GML Eco Range is designed for efficient city bus operations and features a low and completely flat floor from front to back, giving greater accessibility and stability to passengers.
The electric bus represents the combination of European experience through Volvo’s electromobility innovations and local expertise in Gemilang’s accomplished track record on electric bus body to deliver a new level of safety, efficiency and emission-free city transport solutions.
It can hold a capacity of up to 91 passengers, with 33 seating capacity comprising safety seats, priority seats and foldable seats, and 58 standees depending on the selection of body length.
The powerful driveline with up to 400kW (540hp) makes the acceleration and uphill capabilities of the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range effortless.
Features include Volvo disc brakes, Electronic Braking System (EBS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Acceleration Slip Regulator (ASR), Brake Blending, Hill Start Aid and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Mak said the Volvo's ambition is to offer the world’s most responsible and safe electric bus systems.
"We believe that electromobility is one of the greatest solutions that can power a better future for all.
"The introduction of the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range will contribute to a more sustainable environment through zero-emission whilst playing a key role in strengthening industry networks through increasing understanding of superior electromobility technologies," he said.
Gemilang International Ltd executive director Pang Jun Jie said the introduction of the all-new Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range is very timely.
"Given domestically, Rapid Bus is set to expand its fleet of electric buses as part of its fleet electrification programme.
"With aluminium body super structure, the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range possesses outstanding reliability, safety levels and environmental performance that are suited for use as the choice public transportation vehicle in Malaysia," he said.
