Cologne in e-mobility: KVB plans full e-bus network until 2030!

Cologne in e-mobility: KVB plans full e-bus network until 2030!

The Cologne Verkehrsbetriebe (KVB) have ambitious plans for the future of local public transport in the cathedral city. They want to complete the complete switch to e-buses by 2030. Technology board member Jörn Schwarze recently emphasized that a third of the KVB buses are operated electrically. The changeover also has its challenges, but the positive developments cannot be overlooked. Electrive reports that technical problems and range problems are now largely solved.

The reliability and market maturity of the e-buses have proven to be great strengths. In fact, the operating costs of e-buses are somewhat cheaper than those of their diesel-powered counterparts. However, the investments in the electric bus fleet and the necessary charging infrastructure are twice as high as with diesel buses. This is a major challenge for the KVB and other transport companies, especially with regard to future competition for network capacities with other industries such as logistics.

conversion of the operating taxes and infrastructure

The renovation of the operating taxes, such as in Cologne-Porz, is positively perceived among the employees. However, the renovation measures in other depots require extensive changes and at least five to six years lead time, especially because of the necessary network connections. This is a clear indication that the KVB is planning very early and passes on important recommendations to other transport companies. According to the VDV, integrated planning of vehicles, charging infrastructure and software is crucial for a smooth operation.

A key to this conversion is electric buses that are not only emission -free, but also to be operated with regenerative electricity in order to make the inner -city traffic more climate -neutral. In order to successfully make the changeover, more space for bus traces is also necessary to avoid traffic jams. City plans are required here that take the trend towards e-mobility into account.

The way to electromobility

Developments related to electric buses show growing acceptance in Germany. In 2022, 620 additional electric buses were purchased nationwide, which corresponds to an increase of 50 percent compared to the previous year. The emovy emphasizes that some models can even cover up to 550 kilometers without unloading, which defuses the range problem. Nevertheless, many transport companies have to expect high costs when purchasing e-buses.

The advantages of the electric buses are clear: they are climate -friendly, quiet and have lower operating costs. In addition, energy can be regained when braking, which minimizes consumption. However, the higher acquisition costs and the required charging infrastructure continue to be hurdles that need to be overcome. The next few years will decide how quickly the switch can be carried out and which capacities are available in the cities.