Irisbus is adding a hybrid series model to its Citelis city bus range. Additionally, Irisbus Iveco has signed an agreement with BAE Systems for the supply of components for the power chain for its new-generation hybrid buses.

Over the past 15 years, Irisbus Iveco has produced 120 hybrid buses, mainly for its EuroPolis and CityClass ranges, as well as several dozen battery and fuel-cell vehicles. More than 600 trolleybuses are also in circulation under the names of Citelis (in several Central European countries), Cristalis and Civis (with Siemens optical guidance system), which are in service in France, Italy and Spain.

Irisbus and BAE Systems will offer under 40-foot and 60-foot hybrid buses developed from the Citelis range equipped with hybrid power, integrating a generator fed by a downsized Iveco Tector 6 EEV cylinder engine, and enabling the "Stop & Start" function. The electric traction engine, run on latest generation lithium-ion batteries, also enables energy recovery during breaking.

This system reduces fuel consumption and CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions by up to 30 percent, as well as a 50 percent reduction in NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions.

Irisbus Iveco is now in a position to meet European tenders for hybrid buses and to deliver at the end of 2010/early 2011.