GAZ : presents a perspective model of GAZelle NEXT electric minibus

At COMTRANS/17, GAZ Group presents a perspective model of the GAZelle NEXT electric bus. The bus is designed on the basis of the unified electroplatform, which was developed for the entire model range of GAZ light commercial vehicles. On the basis of this platform, it is possible to manufacture drop-side trucks, vans and minibuses.

The electric vehicle is equipped with a three-phase induction electric motor with a maximum power of 98 kW and an original gearbox which allows the bus to accelerate up to 90 km/h and provides a cruising range of at least 120 km. Charging is possible both from industrial (380 V) and household (220 V) networks. The minimum charging time is less than three hours. Gear system and traction batteries are located within the frame, with the entire cabin space allocated for the passengers.

The framed minibus with increased passenger capacity is demonstrated to the general public for the first time. The bus was created under the Accessible Urban Environment Program. The distinctive feature of the model is its low floor which is convenient for elderly people, people with disabilities and passengers with prams.

The bus based on the GAZelle NEXT 4.6 chassis can carry from 16 to 22 passengers. The air rear suspension ensures smooth drive of the vehicle, the rear axle with increased load capacity and a reinforced frame provide for high reliability of the structure. In the future, buses of this design will also be produced with diesel engines.

Vadim Sorokin, President of GAZ Group, says,

'in the future, we will develop a model range of GAZ electric vehicles by creating a new component base, both in-house and jointly with specialized companies and scientific and technical centers. The main problem today is the high cost of basic electrical components, almost 100% of which are imported. At present, GAZ Group together with its partners is developing an electric motor for light commercial vehicles with increased efficiency, batteries with their own control system and a number of other key components. Already at the end of the year, it is planned to start assembling new generation electric vehicles with enhanced characteristics.