In the wake of recent concerns in the industry around electric bus battery safety, Volvo Bus Australia is reiterating its commitment to safety and innovation in the sector.
With a steadfast dedication to excellence, Volvo Bus Australia says it stands at the forefront of electric bus technology, prioritising safety as a cornerstone of its operations.
Safety has always been paramount in Volvo’s mission, and the company’s approach to electric bus systems is no exception. Leveraging decades of expertise in automotive safety, Volvo Bus has engineered electric buses with cutting-edge safety features to ensure the well-being of passengers, drivers and the community.
“With safety as one of our core values, Volvo Bus has invested significant resources in research and development to deliver electric buses that exceed industry standards,” Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden told ABC.
“We understand the importance of instilling confidence in our customers, demonstrating that we’re long-term business partners for the road ahead.
“We know the best way to do that is by consistently demonstrating our dedication to research, development and implementation of the best possible safety systems.”
Key to Volvo’s safety philosophy is the comprehensive approach to risk mitigation and prevention. Volvo says its BZL Electric bus is a testament to this commitment, integrating multiple layers of safety mechanisms to safeguard against potential hazards. These safety systems include Traction Voltage Monitoring Unit (TVMU), Hazardous Voltage Interlock Loop (HVIL), continuity testing, insulation resistance monitoring and an emergency cut-off switch.
The Volvo BZL Electric bus incorporates advanced battery management systems that continuously monitor and regulate battery performance.
This intelligent system optimises battery usage, mitigating the risk of overheating or electrical malfunctions. Additionally, Volvo Buses’ rigorous testing procedures guarantee that each electric bus undergoes stringent assessments to validate its safety and reliability under various operating conditions.
In addition to proactive safety features on the buses, Volvo Bus Australia delivers a range of training and education for drivers and maintenance personnel. Comprehensive training programs ensure that operators are well equipped to handle electric buses safely and efficiently, minimising the likelihood of incidents both on and off road.
Volvo Bus Australia is actively engaged in collaborative initiatives with regulatory agencies and industry stakeholders to establish best practices and standards for electric bus safety. By fostering open dialogue and sharing insights, Volvo Buses aim to contribute to the continuous improvement of safety protocols across the transportation sector.
As pioneers in sustainable mobility, Volvo Bus says it remains steadfast in its mission to drive positive change through innovation and responsibility. By championing safety at every stage of design, production, and operation, Volvo is hoping to continue setting the benchmark for electric bus safety in Australia and beyond.