The Indonesian commercial transportation industry has seen increased attention following the circulation of a post online.

Indotruck Utama (ITU) has indicated that a new electric bus chassis could be introduced to the market soon. It is believed to be the Volvo BZR Electric 6x2. The three-axle chassis is designed for intercity transportation and is available in global markets.

Bus dimensions

The large-capacity platform is designed to balance energy efficiency and performance. It is also intended to provide passenger comfort and support long-distance operations for bus operators. The total length can be adjusted to up to 14,960mm.

Its wheelbase ranges from 5,500 mm to 7,400 mm, providing local bodybuilders with flexibility in designing bus bodies. The chassis has a Gross Vehicle Weight of up to 27,200 kg. The front axle can support a load of up to 8,200kg, while the rear bogie is designed to support up to 19,000kg.

Volvo BZR Electric 6x2 specifications

The powertrain uses dual EPT802 electric motors producing a combined output of 551 PS. Peak torque is 850 Nm, while torque at the wheels is rated at 33,500 Nm. The power is transmitted through Volvo's two-speed automatic transmission. The system is designed to provide smooth acceleration while improving battery efficiency. The powertrain uses 600V NCA lithium-ion batteries with capacities ranging from 450 kWh to 720 kWh. The batteries can be configured with between five and eight power packs.

Charging is supported through a 250 kW CCS DC fast-charging option. The chassis also features OppCharge technology using a pantograph with a power output exceeding 450kW. Battery temperature is managed by a dedicated thermal management system based on a 600V active cooling system. The system also uses exhaust heat from the drive system to warm the battery circulation.

Modern features

The chassis uses disc brakes integrated with the Electronic Braking System 5. Safety and braking functions include ABS, ESC, ASR and Hill Start Aid.

Long-distance operation is supported by a multi-balloon air suspension system. The chassis is also equipped with Volvo Dynamic Steering, which is designed to reduce driver fatigue.

The driver's cockpit features a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The display provides real-time vehicle information and charging status and includes Bluetooth connectivity. The potential introduction of the electric bus chassis would form part of PT Indotruck Utama's activities in the commercial vehicle electrification sector. Volvo's electric vehicle technology could also contribute to the adoption of electric commercial transportation in Indonesia.