The initial results of the trial show that LNG buses are more competitive than current Euro 5 diesel vehicles in terms of fuel consumption. The recorded LNG use in kilograms per 100 km was 10% lower than the number of liters of diesel burned on the same routes by Euro 5 diesel counterparts. In turn, LNG vehicles have the potential to save up to 35% of fuel costs compared to diesel units.
Furthermore, the feedback from the Polish municipal transport operators involved in the program revealed other advantages of these buses, such as the refueling time: with LNG technology every bus can be refueled in 3-4 minutes. Drivers also liked the vehicles and enjoyed a powerful 320 HP natural gas engine, which provides stunning acceleration, comparable to the most agile city buses with diesel engines.
The lighter tank can be mounted within the bus’ bodywork instead of on the roof, so the Solbus LNG buses look exactly the same as diesel versions. According to the bus operators, their standard height makes these buses able to serve the routes passing under low bridges inaccessible for other buses.
Source: Solbus
