The Lviv-based Electronmash plant has unveiled a new model of electric bus, the Electron E181. The main feature of the model is its compact length of 10.2 meters. The electric bus can carry 90 passengers and has 30 seats. In particular, there is one seat for a passenger in a wheelchair.
One battery charge is enough for 300-350 kilometers. Battery charging takes up to 5 hours. The electric bus can operate in recuperation mode, i.e., when braking, some of the electrical energy is returned to the batteries.
This was announced by Dmytro Kysilevsky, deputy chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Economic Development and coordinator of the “Made in Ukraine” policy in Parliament.
The Electron concern implemented this project based on the Made in Ukraine policy instruments. In particular, localization requirements apply to public procurement for urban transport. The new electric bus has also been included in the register of equipment for which the state compensates the buyer for 15% of the cost.
The localization level of the new model is over 40%. More than 250 Ukrainian companies located in all regions of the country are suppliers of components and spare parts for the Electron E181 electric bus. The production of such a vehicle provides thousands of jobs throughout the supply chain.
“By purchasing Ukrainian equipment, customers not only receive modern and high-quality products, but also have access to proper service and the ability to adapt a specific vehicle to the customer’s wishes. Up to 40% of the funds spent on Ukrainian goods are returned to budgets at various levels in the form of taxes, financing both communities and the Armed Forces. Therefore, replenishing the passenger fleet with Ukrainian rather than foreign vehicles means comfort and safety for passengers, confidence in service, and a return of part of the funds through taxes to the budget,” said Dmytro Kysilevsky.
The policy of developing Ukrainian manufacturers, “Made in Ukraine,” was announced by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in February 2024. It is aimed at supporting production, industrial investment, and exports.
Legislation on localization in public procurement came into force in July 2022. In 2025, it will require that at least 25% of certain types of products purchased by government agencies, state-owned companies, and communities be of Ukrainian origin. In 2028, the localization level for public procurement will be 40%.
