MERCEDES-BENZ

eO500U: the first electric bus offered by the brand in Brazil

The Mercedes-Benz eO500U is the first electric bus offered by the brand in Brazil. Although it was revealed in 2021, sales have only just started. According to the manufacturer, 100 units were ordered for the city of São Paulo. In other words, it is a product focused on urban operations. The novelty is based on the O500U, which has had more than 15,000 sales.

Although they share the same chassis, the electric version brings changes in the electronic architecture. In addition, it received a new instrument panel, with more features. As well as front axle for up to 8.2 tonnes. With this, it can withstand the increase in total gross weight (PBT), because of the batteries. According to Mercedes-Benz, this did not reduce passenger carrying capacity.

Likewise, there is a new AVE 130, 13 t rear axle supplied by ZF. The component integrates two electric motors, one in each wheel hub. As a result, the model has a PBT of 21.2 t. For now, the Mercedes-Benz eO500U has 4x2 traction. However, the brand informs that it will be able to develop a 6x2 option, as well as an articulated one. For that, it would be enough to adapt the chassis, axles and batteries.

Electric Mercedes-Benz has 340 hp...According to the engineer responsible for Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles, Marcelo Palla, there are projects in progress. However, he did not reveal details. For now, the model has electric motors with a power equivalent to 340 hp and torque of 98.9 mkgf. In addition, the entire part with high voltage systems is located at the rear of the chassis.

But unlike other electric vehicles, the batteries are not on the bottom, but on the roof. According to the manufacturer, there are two packages, with a nominal voltage of 665 volts each. In any case, it is possible to install up to six packages, depending on the type of operation. However, the more batteries there are, the smaller the capacity to carry passengers.

After all, more batteries mean more weight. Therefore, to meet the Padron category, for 83 passengers, the eO500U must have five battery packs. With six, the number of passengers is reduced to 75. According to the manufacturer, in this case the range is up to 300 km. Also according to Mercedes-Benz, charging takes about three hours in fast systems, with a power of 150 kWh.

Efficient air conditioning... For the operation of SPTrans, the new buses must offer autonomy of at least 250 km. Therefore, the models that will operate in operations in the capital of São Paulo will have five battery packs. Initially, these vehicles will have Caio bodywork. But there will also be an option made by Marcopolo.

In turn, the system that works with the air conditioning is provided by Valeo. The main objective was to reduce energy consumption without loss of efficiency. According to the company, the device needs only 1.4 kWh. In the case of conventional, consumption is around 1.7 kWh. Other highlights of the model are the brakes with ABS and ESP.

Quiet and comfortable...The local report took a ride, as a passenger, in the new Mercedes-Benz eO500U. The silence on board stands out, something common in electric vehicles. Running at 35 km/h the decibel meter read 48 decibels. Also, as the bus was on a lane, there was no noise common in big cities.

Either way, the result is the highest level of comfort. As well as the improvement of working conditions for the driver. The independent air suspension collaborates. In addition, the instrument panel, colorful and modern, draws attention. In general, all commands seem to be more intuitive.

Mercedes-Benz does not reveal the price of the eO500U. However, the novelty is at least two and a half times more expensive than the equivalent with a diesel engine. Despite this, it is a path of no return. After all, operators will have to meet the new pollutant emissions regulations. In addition, the lower maintenance cost is another advantage.

Legislation determines change... In São Paulo, for example, there are clear rules on the process of reducing emissions by the public transport system. According to law 16,802 of 2017, by 2027, buses operating in the municipality will have to emit half as much pollutants as current ones. The goal for 2037 is zero emissions.

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