The Hague-based transport service provider HTM is pursuing an ambitious goal: by the end of 2025, all bus traffic will be emission-free. A crucial aspect of this ambition is their close cooperation with Daimler Buses and Daimler Buses Solutions (DBS), which goes far beyond the mere provision of electric buses.
Omnibus Magazine
The Hague: electric buses and charging infrastructure from a single source.
HTM and Daimler Buses Solutions are working closely together on the transition to electric mobility.
The Hague: electric buses and charging infrastructure from a single source.
Sustainable vision.
Since 2016, HTM has been working on the transition to emission-free public transport. By opting for electric mobility, the company has not only laid the foundations for a sustainable fleet, but has also begun an innovative collaboration with Daimler Buses and Daimler Buses Solutions (DBS). “From the very beginning, we knew that switching to electric mobility involved more than simply replacing our diesel buses,” explains Jaap Bierman, Managing Director of HTM. “We wanted a fully integrated system in which buses, charging infrastructure and operational planning were perfectly coordinated.”
“The special thing about Daimler Buses is that they not only supply vehicles, but also a complete system including charging infrastructure and long-term support through Daimler Buses Solutions.”
Partners for the future: HTM and DBS.
The choice fell on Daimler Buses and its subsidiary DBS, whose extensive expertise goes far beyond the delivery of electric buses. “DBS takes care of everything – from the installation of the charging stations to technical support – and they will even support us for up to ten years after delivery. This is quite unusual in our industry,” says Jaap Bierman.
As part of the cooperation, HTM has so far ordered 102 eCitaro buses with powerful batteries that offer a range of up to 300 kilometres. Maximum flexibility in terms of charging times is safeguarded by pantograph charging technology with high charging currents of up to 300 kW, so that the buses can be charged during short breaks. “We work closely with grid operator Stedin to ensure that the charging infrastructure is seamlessly connected to the grid and to avoid peak loads.”
After an initial study in 2016, the project took shape in 2019 when HTM decided to switch completely to electric mobility. According to Bierman, the close cooperation between HTM and DBS was crucial: “The collaboration has been intensive. On our side, technical experts and operating staff were involved, while DBS provided a specialised team for electric buses and charging infrastructure. The complexity of such a project really requires a wide range of expertise.”
Focus on drivers and passengers.
In addition to the technology, driver training is also very important. “Electric buses require a different driving style,” explains Bierman. “DBS has helped us to build up the necessary expertise.” The needs of passengers are also always at the heart of the project: the comfort and reliability of the new buses contribute to making public transport in The Hague not only more attractive, but also accessible to everyone.
“Electric buses require a different driving style. DBS has helped us build up the necessary expertise.”
Bus transport will soon be emission-free.
By the end of 2025, HTM aims to have completely switched to emission-free bus transport. The first electric buses are in operation and the remaining fleet will be gradually replaced. With the support of DBS and a clear strategy, Bierman is optimistic about the future: “We are not only creating more sustainable transport, but also a better experience for our passengers.” Jaap Bierman believes it is important to include charging infrastructure and network management in the planning from the outset. He recommends that other transport service providers take a holistic approach like that of HTM and DBS. “This makes the transition much smoother.”
