How modern buses are changing travelling

Modern buses are significantly different from their older counterparts: they are faster, more convenient for travelling any distance, more functional and more environmentally friendly. And all this is thanks to the use of the latest technologies and increased requirements for passenger comfort. In recent years, environmental solutions to combat global warming have also been actively implemented, so the demand for alternative energy sources has also increased.

The main differences between modern buses and their predecessors

Maximum passenger comfort is one of the driving forces behind the development of modern buses. They have comfortable seats, ample legroom, air conditioning systems that ensure optimal interior temperatures, and smoother suspension that reduces the feeling of shaking while driving. Innovative technologies also play a huge role in making it easier to plan trips: integration of mobile applications, real-time route tracking, online booking, etc.  

Increased comfort level

The passenger experience in modern buses is constantly improving. Comfortable seats that can be adjusted, sockets and USB ports for charging devices, free Wi-Fi and climate control make any journey easier. The buses are also equipped with improved soundproofing systems so that passengers can travel in peace without being distracted by outside noise. Electronic displays and multimedia systems allow passengers to spend their time on the road with benefits: watching their favourite films, music videos (using headphones) or viewing routes, arrival times and other useful information.

Improved efficiency and environmental friendliness

One of the most noticeable trends in the bus industry is the transition to environmentally friendly fuels. Major market players have long been testing and introducing electric and hydrogen buses, which emit virtually no harmful substances. This is critical for cities where air pollution levels are already high. Such steps not only help meet international standards but also make a huge contribution to the fight against air pollution and global warming. 

Advanced safety system

The new generation of buses has improved safety systems that significantly increase the protection of both passengers and drivers. One of the key elements is the automatic emergency braking system, which reduces the risk of collisions on the road.

Stability control and anti-lock braking systems are also installed, which is very important on slippery and winding roads. Rearview cameras, blind spot sensors and lane departure warning systems allow drivers to react more quickly to road conditions and minimise the risk of accidents. 

For the comfort and safety of passengers, durable materials are used in the body construction, as well as improved belts and airbags. All of these measures are aimed at making bus travel as safe as possible, even in heavy city traffic and on busy roads.

Buses of the future: what do they look like?

The buses of the future are not just about environmental friendliness and automation, but a whole range of innovative solutions designed to make every journey faster, more convenient and safer. Modern bus developments are based on several key areas: electric buses, hydrogen buses, autonomous technologies and smart control systems.

Electric buses (e-buses)

Modern electric buses have become leaders among environmentally friendly vehicles. The most popular are the Lion`s City E (MAN), AVENUE ELECTRON (TEMSA), Urbino 8.9 (Solaris), BYD eBus and Proterra ZX5. They have a number of features and advantages:

• they run on electric batteries, which makes them an environmentally friendly mode of transport;
• they have low noise levels and do not emit any harmful emissions;
• they can cover up to 300 km on a single charge, and fast charging technologies allow them to quickly restore energy at stops;
• often used in urban environments where short routes and the need to reduce emissions are important.

Hydrogen buses: an eco-friendly alternative to electricity

Hydrogen technologies are also becoming popular in the transport sector. The main feature of hydrogen fuel cell buses, such as the Toyota Sora, is the reduction of emissions. These buses combine the benefits of electric vehicles, such as quietness and low emissions, but they are also faster and can be charged in minutes instead of taking a long time to charge batteries and travel more kilometres without refuelling. In addition, they offer a safe and environmentally friendly future for public transport. However, additional investment is required to introduce such buses to routes, as there are few petrol stations for such vehicles.

Hybrid buses - a transition to environmentally friendly technologies

The combination of traditional diesel and petrol engines with electric motors can reduce fuel consumption. An example is Volvo Hybrid buses, which are already operating in many cities around the world. This transport of the future has its own technological advantages:

• It combines an electric motor and a traditional internal combustion engine;
• It uses electric energy to drive at low speeds or in heavy traffic, which saves fuel and reduces harmful CO2 emissions;
• It is particularly popular on intercity routes where convenience and fuel efficiency are important.

Autonomous buses - the driverless future

Autonomous buses, such as the Navya and Mercedes-Benz Future Bus, are being actively tested in various countries. This technology has the potential to gradually change the approach to public transport, reducing staff costs and improving passenger safety. Autonomous buses operate without the need for a driver, thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, sensors and navigation systems. Such buses are equipped with radars, lidars, cameras and GPS, which allows them to ‘see’ the road, identify other vehicles and pedestrians, and monitor road conditions in real time. These technologies ensure safety, accident avoidance and smooth driving on the roads.

For example, Swedish company Scania is already conducting tests on special routes. Tesla has already presented the Robovan bus, which is planned to be used for passenger transport for up to 20 people. The Robovan looks like a train, has a futuristic design, and has no visible wheels or windscreen. 

Buses for people with disabilities: inclusive transport

An important trend in the development of future transport is accessibility for passengers with limited mobility. In Paris and Amsterdam, almost all public transport is suitable for use by people with disabilities. In Germany, low-floor buses from Solaris and IVECO have also been running for a long time. Such vehicles have low floors or ramps, seat belts and special fasteners to ensure that wheelchairs are securely fastened while in motion and that there is enough space to manoeuvre. In Hong Kong, some buses are additionally equipped with information displays and sound systems to help people with hearing or visual impairments navigate the journey. Inclusive solutions are an important step towards creating a society where every passenger can have access to convenient transport.

If you have any questions, the INFOBUS round-the-clock support team will always be happy to help you sort everything out.  

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Sincerely, INFOBUS!