e:Bus conference in Prague

Approximately 180 participants gathered in Prague for the e:Bus conference on October 23, 2024. Based on the discussions, it can be clearly stated that we need an ecosystem approach that brings together the various technologies and charging concepts to achieve the goal in a complementary way. And that means more than just changing the powertrain, it means developing an accessible, affordable, and inclusive public transport system. The sessions during the day showed how we need to work together as a public transport community, what new standards we need to set in terms of quality and sustainability.

At the conference, the UITP eBRT 2023 project outlined its objectives and progress in expanding Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in Europe, focusing on advancements in electric mobility technologies like in-motion charging, electric road systems, and IoT-enhanced vehicle connectivity.

After that, the Interreg CE4CE project came to the fore: partners introduced how the project promotes circular economy practices in public transport, covering vehicles, infrastructure, and energy use. The CE4CE Circular Compass supports this integration, with discussions on using digital twin models—already applied in Gdynia, Poland—for planning electrification investments and enhancing trolleybus networks with sustainable design trends.

The final session focused on planning and operating advanced trolleybus systems, with insights into hybrid trolleybus models for Marburg, modern solutions for efficient operation, Biel’s smart trolleybus innovations, and the trolleybus system in Coimbra.

A big thank you to trolley:motion for the great organisation and to the sponsors Elektroline a.s., Kummler+Matter AG and Škoda Group!

 

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