IVECO Bus and HEULIEZ: Leaders in Sustainable Passenger Transport

CNH Industrial counts two passenger transport brands among is 12 brand stable: IVECO BUS which is commercialized in Europe, South America and the Asia, Middle East and Africa Region, and HEULIEZ, a historic French brand which is entirely focused on electric buses for the domestic French market. And both brands recorded significant environmental milestones in 2020.

IVECO BUS: A record for sustainable mobility!

2020 was a unique year in many ways, and one which saw IVECO BUS confirm its leadership in the field of alternative-powered vehicles. Vehicles from the non-diesel engine low-floor urban range represented more than three quarters of production.  These city buses were powered by a variety of sources, including natural gas, hybrid electric and 100% electric mode. These alternative powertrain solutions represented more than 77% of production, an increase of 17% compared to 2019. The natural gas-powered models saw the biggest growth, with 50% of urban buses powered by natural gas. Production of Crossway Natural Power intercity vehicles doubled, representing 10% of total production.

This impressive performance further confirms IVECO BUS’ role as a pioneer and recognized expert in offering clean transport solutions that meet the ever-increasing expectations of authorities, operators and citizens, with vehicles that respect natural resources, the environment and public health, while providing operational versatility.

IVECO BUS’ full range of environmentally friendly transport solutions includes compressed natural gas, biomethane-compatible, and electric powertrains, which meet all passenger transport needs in urban, suburban and interurban settings.

Furthermore, when fueled by biomethane recovered from organic waste, these buses actually help preserve natural resources. Natural gas is particularly attractive in terms of meeting environmental challenges both in relation to polluting emissions, as the particulate matter level is almost zero and Nitrogen Oxides are reduced by more than a third, and noise pollution. These environmental benefits result in a reduction in greenhouse gases of up to 95% and noise levels are halved, providing exceptionally quiet operation for drivers, passengers and residents.  

In addition to its natural gas range, IVECO BUS also offers carbon-free mobility through its range of hybrid electric and 100% electric vehicles. The 100% electric E-WAY battery-powered bus range offers three charging modes overnight at the depot, via pantograph (ascending or descending) or mixed recharging to meet the specific autonomy needs of each customer. An In-Motion-Charging version, that combines overhead electric lines with a small onboard battery is also available. These vehicles charge while running under overhead cables. They can also be powered by battery over a distance of up 25% - 40% of the line.

HEULIEZ: Number 1 for electromobility in France

HEULIEZ affirmed its leadership in electric buses in France in 2020, with a market share of some 45.8%, a 16% year-on-year increase. It is the brand’s standard GX 337 ELEC depot-charging model which has enjoyed particular success in the Country. Electric buses are already equipped to conform to tomorrow’s mobility challenges, by delivering both zero emission and zero noise operation, two key concerns for French towns.

HEULIEZ has made significant investments in its manufacturing infrastructure in Rorthais, western France, to develop a center of excellence specialized in the production of 100% electric buses. Alongside the production facilities, the site is also home to a range of test tracks specially developed for electric busses, fully equipped with the full range of charging options – both fast and slow. This enables potential customers to test the buses in real world conditions, validate the technological solutions on offer – both in terms of reliability and effectiveness – which means once the buses are delivered, they can immediately enter service.

Today, HEULIEZ 100% electric buses are already in operation in fifteen French towns, with Paris having the largest fleet.