Busworld Europe '10.2023

06 October 2023

Otokar is shaping the public transportation of the future by developing its iconic microbus, the electric e-CENTRO, with autonomous driving technology. The company is one step closer to its goals in its ongoing work on autonomous vehicles.

Autonomous e-CENTRO, which has Level 4 autonomous driving technology, can travel without a need of human driver and also comply with traffic rules. The vehicle, which can detect its own position precisely, has the ability to determine its route in the most optimum way, taking into account the current road situation information, thanks to its technological equipment. Autonomous e-CENTRO offers an uninterrupted transportation experience at any time of the day, regardless of whether the weather is sunny or rainy. Promising a comfortable journey for public transportation, the autonomous e-CENTRO can approach stops and ensure smooth loading and unloading of passengers. The vehicle can also manage stopping and moving times by itself and can also navigate smoothly at intersections and roundabouts. It slows down at speed bumps and pedestrian crossings and gives priority to pedestrians. It has an advanced hill performance. Autonomous e-CENTRO, which can follow the vehicle in front of it in accordance with the safe following distance, can detect possible dangers while driving and make emergency braking or evasive actions quickly. While doing all this, it does not disturb its passengers and the environment.

The autonomous e-CENTRO can be seen and experienced at the exhibition. The microbus is driving between the entrance and the exhibition halls. Passengers are invited to join the ride and experience the autonomous vehicle.

e-CENTRO microbus is also in display at Otokar stand. With its compact size, e-CENTRO offers an environment-friendly and accessible solution for historical districts and touristic areas of cities with narrow streets, and zero emission zones. The 6,6 meter length e-CENTRO provides high maneuverability due to its compact dimension. With an electric motor with a maximum power of 200 kW and a maximum torque of 1200 Nm, e-CENTRO does not compromise performance even on the steepest hills. The bus stands out with its lightness and lower operating costs, providing reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) and better range for public transport operators. The 110 kW Li-ion NMC batteries of e-Centro can be fully charged in as short as 1.5 hours, offering a range of 200 km on a single charge. Onboard charging is also available. Furthermore, the regenerative braking feature enables up to 25 percent energy recovery from braking and deceleration in urban traffic.

Positioning the batteries under the floor creates wide and spacious interior and enables the bus to carry up to 32 passengers. Featuring a low-floor design, e-CENTRO delivers comfortable rides for all passengers, including people with disabilities or those with strollers.

https://www.otokar.com.tr/news/daily-news/otokar-continues-its-growth-in-europe-with-firm-steps

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