The Italian bus manufacturer Industria Italiana Autobus has presented its first fully electric city bus. The electric 12-meter Citymood 12e bus is powered by a Siemens motor with 160 kW continuous and 230 kW peak power and has a rechargeable battery with NMC cells.


This is offered in two versions with 330 and 495 kWh, according to the manufacturer. While Siemens names the supplier for the electric motor, the data sheet does not indicate from which provider Industria Italiana Autobus procures the battery cells. In addition to the capacity of the battery pack and the reference to the NMC cell chemistry, only the nominal voltage of 655 volts is specified. A range is not mentioned.

The Italians emphasize that the 12.10-meter bus is not a prefabricated vehicle, but can be configured according to the needs of transport companies. In addition to the choice of battery size, mirror cameras are also mentioned. Further possible adjustments are not specified, but should primarily affect the interior. Striking: The "Sustainable Bus" portal states that the camera mirrors are standard - the manufacturer himself mentions them in the section on the configuration options.

As regards the charging system for the batteries, Industria Italiana Autobus states that they can be charged via CCS with a maximum charging capacity of 130 kW. However, there is apparently no charging option via pantograph.

The Citymood 12e is to be built in its own plant in Flumeri, which has been renovated with state funding since 2019. 200 workers who were previously employed there but had to be laid off in the meantime are to be reinstated for production. The construction department has also been rebuilt since the restart two years ago.

The battery-electric version now shown could also be followed by a fuel cell version. CEO Antonio Liguori said 2023 could be the year of hydrogen. “We are investigating what is the best solution. At the same time, we are waiting for the infrastructure to be built, ”says the manager.