Dalian Transforms Public Transport with 1,032 New Electric Buses

Dalian, a city located in Liaoning province, has recently introduced a fleet of 1,032 electric buses, marking a pivotal shift in public transportation by completely replacing its outdated gasoline and natural gas buses that have been in service for over a decade. With this move, Dalian Public Transport Group has achieved a notable milestone, as every bus in their fleet is now powered by green energy, and over 85 percent are classified as new energy buses, according to Zhang Yong, a senior manager at the organization.

This initiative represents the most significant upgrade to public transport in Dalian since the launch of a large-scale equipment enhancement and consumer goods trade-in program in March 2024. Following the procurement process, which took just three months, Dalian Public Transport Construction Investment Group signed a contract with CRRC Times Electric Vehicle Co Ltd. in October to facilitate the project.

Liu Junhua, the general manager of CRRC Times Electric Vehicle’s Shenyang branch, highlighted the advances and innovations incorporated into the new buses, which utilize cutting-edge new energy technologies. These vehicles promise a quieter ride and enhanced power, significantly improving the overall travel experience for passengers. The fleet mainly consists of buses in various sizes, including 8.5-meter, 10.5-meter, 7-meter, 12-meter, and double-decker models, all designed with lightweight structures and leading energy efficiency metrics.

One of the notable features of these electric buses is an independently developed battery water heating control system, which optimizes battery performance in extremely cold conditions. Furthermore, the new buses are outfitted with innovative CATL lithium iron phosphate batteries that extend their range and help lower carbon emissions. Accessibility is also a priority, with features such as automatic chassis lifting, manual wheelchair ramps, and designated wheelchair spaces to aid passenger convenience.

Safety and driver comfort are enhanced with the incorporation of advanced electronic systems, including electronic rearview mirrors, a 360-degree surround view camera, and blind spot monitoring. Wang Chao, a bus driver, emphasized the improvements in visibility that these technologies provide, contributing to a safer driving experience. The driver seats have also been designed for comfort, featuring shock absorption and adjustability to help reduce fatigue during long shifts.