Transport sector updates: FlixBus electric routes and Virgin-Alstom rail deal

FlixBus has launched a new electric bus service between Vienna and Bratislava. The operation utilizes eight Yutong T12E electric buses, each equipped with 466 kWh batteries providing a 500 km range. The service connects city centers and airports, with plans for 66 daily trips. Charging is supported by solar power systems with battery storage in both cities. The project is funded by Blaguss private investments, Austrian state resources, and the European NextGenerationEU program.

In the United Kingdom, Virgin and Alstom have entered a contract for the manufacture and delivery of twelve high-speed trains. These Avelia Stream trains, utilizing former Bombardier Zefiro technology, are expected to operate in the Channel Tunnel between 2030 and 2040. The service aims to connect London, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam with speeds of up to 300 km/h, providing direct competition to existing rail services.

Additionally, Polish manufacturer Solaris has introduced a new electric bus prototype specifically designed for the US market. The 40-foot model features a redesigned architecture to meet American requirements, including roof-mounted batteries compatible with the OppCharge standard. Initial customers for this and future 60-foot articulated versions include King County Metro Seattle and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.