METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Europe's FlixBus to pilot electric buses on long-distance routes

Beginning in April, the first all-electric Flix-E-Buses will begin test operations with the premiere route between Paris and Amiens, France. The second Flix-E-Bus will hit the road between Hessen and Baden-Württemberg, Germany, in Summer 2018.

March 13, 2018
Europe's FlixBus to pilot electric buses on long-distance routes

In addition to international lines, approximately 140 new destinations will be added in German-speaking countries alone, with further connections planned across the 26 other markets in which FlixBus currently operates.

FlixBus

2 min to read


In addition to international lines, approximately 140 new destinations will be added in German-speaking countries alone, with further connections planned across the 26 other markets in which FlixBus currently operates. FlixBus

FlixBus, Europe’s largest long-distance mobility provider, is now investing in E-Mobility as the first company in the world to test E-Buses on their long-distance bus routes. Beginning in April, the first all-electric Flix-E-Buses will begin test operations with the premiere route between Paris and Amiens, France. The second Flix-E-Bus will hit the road between Hessen and Baden-Württemberg, Germany, in Summer 2018 as part of the German domestic network expansion for summer travelers.

"We want to help shape the future of mobility. Although e-buses are currently much more expensive to buy, we are convinced that this will be a worthwhile investment in the long run, for our company, our customers, and the environment,” said André Schwämmlein, founder/CEO of FlixBus. “As a provider, we are demonstrating that this is a potential turning point in mobility. Likewise, the first all-electric long-distance bus is a signal to bus manufacturers to drive innovation and develop alternatives to pure diesel vehicles. Sustainable mobility is not only about driving business but is also about the social and environmental aspects of traveling."

Ad Loading...

The long-distance bus is one of the most environmentally-friendly modes of transportation available today, thanks to a modern fleet and the ability to fill large capacities within each vehicle. People who choose bus over car for longer routes reduce their CO2 emissions by 80%.

“The current trend is moving away from private car travel and towards shared mobility options such as buses,” said Schwämmlein. “FlixBus is proud to be a pioneer in helping to propel this change and reliance on transportation with fossil fuels by providing some of the most climate-friendly mobility options in Europe.”

FlixBus will continue to invest in grid expansion in the coming months. In addition to international lines, approximately 140 new destinations will be added in German-speaking countries alone, with further connections planned across the 26 other markets in which FlixBus currently operates.

To fulfill the company mission of providing smart and green mobility for everyone to experience the world, FlixMobility is preparing for two major milestones with the launch of FlixTrain, the first long-distance green train, on March 23 in Germany and the launch of FlixBus USA beginning in Los Angeles in Spring 2018.

More Technology

A blue graphic with lap top and phone iterations of Smith System's Trainer Center.
Technologyby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Smith System Launches Trainer Center to Scale Fleet Safety Programs

The new hub digitizes trainer-led safety programs, reducing admin work and giving fleets clearer insight into driver behavior.

Read More →
Technologyby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Houston METRO Introduces RideMETRO Fare System

The upgraded system, which went live earlier this month, supports METRO’s METRONow vision to enhance the customer experience, improve service reliability, and strengthen long-term regional mobility.

Read More →
ManagementJanuary 22, 2026

Florida's JTA Unveils Mobility Visioning Plan 2050 at State of the Authority Event

CEO Nat Ford’s address offered a look at highlights from 2025, with a focus on the future and the innovative ways the JTA is shaping mobility in Northeast Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
BusJanuary 22, 2026

Biz Briefs: BART, Uber Launch Partnership and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
TTC Bus
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

TTC Launches Pilot to Test New Bus Safety Technologies

The pilot also includes new in-vehicle displays designed to reduce blind spots and improve operator visibility.

Read More →
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

Florida's Tri-Rail Taps Siemens Mobility for Modern Locomotive Procurement

Expected to enter service in 2029, these locomotives support the agency’s commitment to offer reliable and efficient rail transportation across South Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
SponsoredJanuary 19, 2026

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.

Read More →
CTA railcar in station.
Technologyby StaffJanuary 16, 2026

CTA Innovation Studio Expands Pilot to Reduce Smoke, Odors

The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.

Read More →
Transit signal priority and public transit agencies.
New Mobilityby Alex RomanJanuary 16, 2026

How AI is Redefining Transit Operations and Signal Priority

In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
RailJanuary 15, 2026

Biz Briefs: Alstom Supplying TTC Subways, SilverRide Lands California Contracts, and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →