The trial in Ankara is only the latest in a series of European trials of the BYD Electric Transit Bus. More than 25 major cities have evaluated the bus in revenue service. Results have been impressive across many different duty cycles showing that the bus is capable of up to 24-hour, route-service on a single battery charge (usually competed in 3-5 hours off-peak), unlike the competition that requires in route charging every couple of hours. When compared to conventional diesel or natural gas fueled buses, the BYD electric bus has demonstrated a dramatic reduction (from 80 – 90%) in operating and maintenance costs.
Ankara City already has one of the greenest fleets in the world with ~1,300 natural-gas-powered buses. This first electric powered bus will be in service between Kuğulu Park and Altınpark for one month. If the bus is also approved by the public after the testing period Ankara will put out a tender and buy electric buses to be used in capital city’s transportation system, according to Ankara mayor Gökçek. BYD will be coming to BusWorld Turkey in April to display their full line of battery electric buses including the 12 meter, 7 meter, and 18 meter articulated and double-decker models.
