Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Mosgortrans has begun testing a charging station with an inverted pantograph. This innovative equipment is planned to be used to charge future electric buses, according to the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry. Maxim Liksutov.
The capital continues to develop its ground transportation network. Comfortable and safe electric buses transport passengers not only to metro stations but also to social, cultural, and sports facilities. In 2025, the number of daily electric bus rides exceeded one million. To increase the number of electric vehicles on the roads, Moscow is installing ultra-fast charging stations (UFS).
"We are implementing cutting-edge technologies to improve transport efficiency and passenger service. We will test the UBZS with an inverted pantograph for three months. The trials will help us prepare for the new charging method for future electric buses. We continue to develop urban electric transport, as Sergei Sobyanin instructed," noted Maxim Liksutov.
For testing on the roof of an A5-generation electric bus, the conventional charging device was replaced with contact rails, and an inverted pantograph was installed on the charging mast instead of the current-transmitting device. The charging process now proceeds as follows: the electric bus approaches the station, the driver gives the command, and the pantograph lowers, connecting to the current-receiving rails on the bus's roof. The bus's batteries then begin charging.
The transition to an innovative method will simplify the design of future electric buses: they will no longer require complex moving devices on the roof to receive the charge. This will make vehicle production even more reliable.
Advantages of electric buses
Electric buses improve the city's environmental situation. Replacing one bus with an electric vehicle reduces carbon dioxide emissions by more than 60 tons per year. Furthermore, they operate smoothly and produce no noise or vibration, making the ride more enjoyable for passengers.
Moscow has been transitioning to electric transport since 2018, and from 2022, the capital will receive upgraded vehicles. The interior features adaptive lighting: after 2:00 PM, it changes from a cool to a warm hue. The front route indicator has been enlarged by 18 percent, making the number visible from a distance. An electric heater maintains a comfortable temperature without harming the environment. The range has almost doubled—from 40–50 to 80–90 kilometers—while the vehicle's weight remains the same.
Electric buses are currently serviced at 12 Mosgortrans sites. Last year, a new generation of KamAZ-52222 electric buses entered service on city routes. Their design was updated with passenger comfort in mind: the cabin layout was revised, the storage area was increased by 15 percent, carry-on storage was added, and the doors were redesigned. The climate control system has become even more efficient, and the doors now feature illuminated opening and closing indicators. Their appearance is even more in line with current global industrial design trends.
The cabin features USB ports for charging mobile devices and media screens displaying information about upcoming stops. Climate control maintains an optimal temperature, and targeted door opening buttons allow you to keep warm air in at each stop.
For passengers with limited mobility, there is a folding ramp, special seats, and driver call buttons. Fare can be paid using digital validators located near the doors.
Moscow's electric buses meet high safety and service standards. Their low floors, folding ramps, and driver-call buttons make them comfortable for passengers with limited mobility. A storage area can accommodate bicycles, strollers, or large luggage. To maintain a comfortable interior temperature, an air curtain automatically activates when the doors are opened. Passenger safety is ensured by video cameras installed inside and outside the vehicles.
The new electric buses are being designed based on operating experience with earlier models and passenger feedback. Moscow's order for new equipment supports employment in other regions and stimulates the development of domestic industry. With the new equipment deliveries and the development of charging infrastructure, the city will see even more electric bus routes.
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