BUSWORLD 2023:

Javier Iriarte, Solaris CEO

Javier Iriarte highlighted the still dynamic growth in the European zero-emission bus market, which increased by 45% year-on-year.

“In the first half of this year, more than ¾ of the buses we registered were zero- or low-emission” – Javier Iriarte said.

The increase in orders strengthened Solaris’ leadership position and gave it first place in the European electric bus market, with an impressive 16.4% share in the first half of 2023.

“One in six buses in this growing and highly competitive market is a Solaris bus. This is something extraordinary and we can be proud of it” – Solaris CEO stated.

The CEO also recalled Solaris’ strategic goals, which include entering the North American market with a zero-emission bus offering.

A few weeks ago, Solaris successfully completed tests in Vancouver, Canada, gathering very positive feedback from the Canadian operators, as well as local residents.

Dr Eng Dariusz Michalak, Solaris CTO

Dr Eng Dariusz Michalak unveiled new Solaris Urbino 18 electric bus, which offers a range of up to 600 kilometres and features a modular drive system. The extend range of the bus is possible thanks to the high-energy batteries with which the vehicle is equipped.

Dariusz Michalak stressed that Solaris is committed to improve the performance and energy efficiency of the batteries, focusing on extending their lifespan.

Passenger capacity has been maximised, allowing up to 145 passengers to be carried. It is possible thanks to placing all the batteries on the roof and its new design, which does not include a conventional engine tower.