Local-transport operator AISA has signed a contract with Alstom to incorporate the Alstom Aptis ebus into its fleet of urban vehicles, making the world heritage city of Aranjuez the first municipality in the Community of Madrid to incorporate a 100% high-capacity electric vehicle into the Madrid Regional mobility services Consortium.

This contract followed several days of testing in which the bus demonstrated its adaptability, efficiency and ‘perfect integration’ in the urban environment and the operator’s fleet.

The Madrid regional operator CRT expects Aptis to enter into service on one of the lines running through the historic centre of the town before the end of the year.

Antonio Moreno, Alstom’s managing director in Spain (www.alstom.com), said: “This is the first commercial success of Aptis in Spain, which we hope to be followed by others throughout this year.

"During the tests carried out in different Spanish cities, our innovative electric bus has generated positive responses among operators and users alike.

"This contract constitutes a major step for Alstom, which aims to be the most innovative world player for sustainable smart mobility.”

Some 12m long and equipped with three doors, Aptis can accommodate over 100 passengers.

It offers a range of more than 200km, and the vehicle ordered by AISA has been designed for overnight charging at the depot.

Aptis is also available for occasional recharging at the end of each line, using either ground-based charging solutions or pantograph charging.