A comprehensive approach to increase energy efficiency of bus systems: methodology and directions from the EBSF_2 project

Abstract

EBSF_2 is a research project led by the International Association of Public Transport and funded by the
European Union with the aim of increasing attractiveness and efficiency of urban bus systems. EBSF_2
combines experiments with research as it relies on demonstrators, i.e. innovative technologies are tested on
vehicles operating in 12 European bus networks and evaluated through a methodology to assess the soundness of
the innovations and their affordability. The innovations under test are different, but increased energy efficiency
is the goal for several test sites which are working to: a) advance energy management of buses, b) lower the
energy needed for on-board heating, ventilating and cooling; c) develop energy-efficient driver support systems.
The paper describes how the topic energy efficiency is addressed within the EBSF_2 demonstrators. The
assessment methodology designed to measure the performance variations in each demonstrator and cross-case is
presented, together with the testing scenarios for three demonstrators and the preliminary results achieved.