The autonomous midi bus e-ATAK from the Turkish manufacturer Karsan, already in service in some countries, is now also being demonstrated in Spain: in the city of Leganés in the Madrid metropolitan area, the vehicle is on test in passenger operation, and residents and other interested parties can experience the ride live on a 2-kilometre circuit starting from the Zarzaquemada suburban railway station until the end of the month. Media interest is particularly high, including various TV channels that have broadcast reports on the self-driving bus. Grupo Ruiz is the operator of the service in Leganés.
For the time being, there is still a driver on board who can intervene in critical situations. In fact, however, this is not often the case; the autonomous bus already manages its journey and the necessary manoeuvres very independently, even when ‘swimming along’ in a busy roundabout, the e-ATAK is unimpressed by the not always defensive behaviour of other road users.
The presence of a driver is already a consequence of the current legal situation, which requires a human to be in control of the vehicle at all times. The test drives are also accompanied by a technical employee of the manufacturer, who can utilise the practical experience gained from the demonstration drives.
Karsan has currently sold approximately 50 electric buses of various lengths in Spain, which are operating in Valdepeñas, Gerona, Tudela, Badajoz and the Barcelona area, among others.
According to current plans, the e-ATAK will be demonstrated at other locations in the country.
Technical data:
- Power train system: Drive Type Direct Drive Engine TM4
Electric Motor Maximum Power (kW): 230 Maximum Torque (Nm): 2.500 - High Voltage Battery (Type – Capacity) Li-ion 360V – 220 kWh
- Range: up to 300 km
- Body Type Carbon Steel: Space Frame Steel Tube Structure Corrosion Resistance Cataphoresis & Underbody Coating
- Suspension Air Suspension + Electronic Level Control + Kneeling Front Axle Independent Rear Axle Rigid Drive Axle
- Brake system: Front & Rear Brakes Pneumatic Disc Brake System Steering Wheel Tiltable & Telescopic Electro Hydraulic Steering Wheel
- Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 11.500
- Overall Length (mm): 8.315
- Overall Width (mm) 2.436
- Overall Height (mm): 3.090
- Front Overhang (mm) 2.040
- Rear Overhang (mm): 1.695
- Wheelbase (mm): 4.580
- Turning Radius (Kerb to Kerb) (Standard Mirrors) (mm): 6.312
- Passenger capacity: 52, thereof 18 seated
Video-Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvXkidsn1c0
