Summary
- Navitrans new N18EV e-bus arrived in Colombia from China and embarked on a trip through the mountains
- The e-bus successfully completed the journey through different altitudes and recharging points
- Bogota’s BRT system is expanding and plans to operate with articulated e-buses, presenting new competition for EV companies
- The N18EV e-bus has a maximum weight capacity of 30 tons, powered by two motors and a massive battery
- Navitrans has quietly expanded its electric portfolio in Colombia, offering a variety of electric vehicles including buses and vans
Article
The article discusses the arrival of a new articulated electric bus, the N18EV, in Colombia. The bus arrived in Buenaventura from China and successfully made its way through various challenging terrains, showcasing its capabilities. It was designed for Bogota’s BRT system, which is undergoing upgrades and expansions, including the purchase of new electric buses to operate on new BRT lines. The city is preparing for the transition to electric buses, and market heavyweights like BYD and Yutong may face increased competition.
The N18EV bus is 18 meters long, with a capacity for 32 seated and 125 standing passengers and a total weight capacity of 30 tons. Powered by two motors and a large CATL battery, the bus has a maximum speed of 60 km/h and an estimated range of over 250 km. It is capable of handling steep terrain, as demonstrated during its trial on the Colombian roads. Charging speeds can reach 260 kW, requiring fast-charging installations and 2-hour charging times to reach full charge from 12%.
Navitrans, a company traditionally focused on diesel vehicles, has quietly expanded its portfolio to include electric buses and vans, including the N18EV. The company offers a range of electric vehicles, including an electric cement mixer, indicating a shift towards electrification in Colombia. While some of the buses have limited range, there is a growing market for electric vehicles in the country. Pricing information is not yet available, making it difficult to assess the cost competitiveness of electric buses compared to diesel ones.
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In conclusion, the arrival of the N18EV articulated electric bus in Colombia marks a significant step towards electrifying public transportation in Bogota. With the city’s plans to expand its BRT system and replace old buses with electric ones, the market for electric vehicles is growing. Companies like Navitrans are embracing electric mobility, offering a range of electric vehicles to cater to different needs. As the transition to electric buses progresses, challenges such as pricing and charging infrastructure will need to be addressed to ensure the widespread adoption of electric buses in Colombia and beyond.
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