SHAH ALAM: Volvo Buses, a leading provider of sustainable transport solutions and part of the Volvo Group, in collaboration with Gemilang International Ltd, a premier Malaysian manufacturer of bus and coach bodywork, has launched the flagship Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range. This marks Volvo’s first locally-built electric low-floor, two-door, premium city bus in Malaysia.
L-R: Standing as witnesses are Pang Jun Jie, Executive Director, Gemilang International Ltd; Marishya Wilhelmina, Director, Volvo Buses APAC Central; Mats Nilsson, Vice President, Volvo Buses Asia Pacific; Robert Lejon, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Sweden.
At the launch event, a signing ceremony was held with Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd to confirm a trial operation of the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range for the Rapid KL bus service. Representing Rapid Bus, CEO Muhammad Yazurin Sallij announced the trial would begin in July 2024 and last between six months and a year, involving the electric bus on Route 581 from Desa Tasik to LRT Bandar Tasik Selatan.
Combining Volvo’s European electromobility innovations with Gemilang’s expertise in electric bus bodywork, the new bus aims to deliver unprecedented safety, efficiency, and zero-emission city transport. Engineered in Sweden, the Volvo BZL chassis features advanced structural design and premium materials, ensuring optimal energy storage and unmatched durability.
The Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range is poised to transform Malaysia’s electric bus segment, supporting the nation’s goals for sustainable public transport. Rapid Bus plans to replace its diesel fleet with electric buses by 2030, aiding Malaysia’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The new bus can reduce carbon emissions by up to 60%, equivalent to approximately 329kg of CO2 per passenger annually over 15,000km compared to diesel buses.
Built on the Volvo BZL 4×2 chassis, the GML Eco Range offers efficient city operations with a flat, low floor for enhanced passenger accessibility and stability. Its modular design allows for customization, reducing repair costs and downtime. It can accommodate up to 91 passengers, with options for different body lengths from 10.6 to 12.5 meters.
The bus adheres to rigorous global safety standards, featuring advanced braking systems like ABS, EBS, ASR, and ESC, alongside optional driver aids such as departure warning, collision warning, and 360-degree cameras. The energy storage system incorporates multiple safety layers, including thermal management and automatic thermal suppression.
Charging options include OppCharge high-power charging and CCS sockets, with roof-mounted energy storage optimizing passenger space and weight distribution. A powerful climate control system, double-glazed glass panels for insulation and noise reduction, and a comfortable, ergonomically designed driver’s seat enhance the commuting experience.
Marcus Mak, Country Manager of Volvo Buses Malaysia, emphasised the company’s commitment to responsible and safe electric bus systems, highlighting the role of electromobility in achieving a sustainable future. Pang Jun Jie, Executive Director of Gemilang International Ltd, noted the alignment of their goals with the Malaysian government’s initiatives to reduce carbon footprints and promote green mobility in major cities like the Klang Valley.
