Pictured above is TOSA, a new large capacity electric bus powered by batteries which are flash charged in 15 seconds at every stop and in 3 to 4 minutes at the terminus. TOSA stands for “Transport avec Optimisation du Système d’Alimentation” (Transport with Optimised Powering System) and it has been developed by the Canton of Geneva (OPI), Industrial Services (SIG), Transports Publics Genevois (tpg) and the manufacturer ABB Sécheron.

Thierry Wagenknecht, Technical Director of tpg :
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For Transports Publics Genevois (tpg), the objective is clear: meet the challenges of urban public transport development by reducing the growing traffic congestion in the city centre and by making the modal shift – from private to public transport – attractive. Reducing polluting emissions by using renewable energy as much as possible (the electric power purchased by tpg is certified 100% hydro) and putting an end to the visual pollution of overhead trolleybus wires are also priorities. Boosting commercial speed by improving reliability is another. At present, the complexity of the network of overhead wires -serving both trams and trolleybuses – is a source of technical hitches and serious breakdowns.

TOSA is one of the highlights of the 60th International Public Transport Association (UITP) World Congress and Exhibition taking place in Geneva from the 26th to the 30th May 2013. The test vehicle can carry up to 140 passengers and will enter service at the start of the Congress and will transport visitors from Geneva International Airport to the Exhibition Centre at Palexpo until March 2014.

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References

1. Statement by the sponsors of TOSA
2. TOSA website
3. AVEM electric and hybrid vehicle website
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