The Scania Irizar i6S Efficient PHEV has won the Coach category in the Sustainable Bus Award 2027, highlighting the potential for plug-in hybrid technology to reduce emissions from long-distance passenger transport.
The coach combines a 338kW Scania Super 13-litre engine with two 145kW electric machines and an 89kWh lithium-ion battery.
Scania says the three-axle model can travel up to 70km using electric power, while the two-axle version extends that range to 80km. This allows operators to use electric propulsion around terminals, in urban areas and through zero-emission zones without sacrificing the flexibility required for longer journeys.
“Long-distance coach operations need solutions that work across very different parts of the journey,” said Anders Liss, Global Head of Business Solutions, People Transport Solutions at Scania.
“With this plug-in hybrid platform, operators can use electric driving where it is required or creates customer value, while retaining and extending the range their operation demands and drastically reducing costs and emissions.”
In favourable operating conditions, including access to en-route charging, Scania claims the plug-in hybrid system can reduce fuel consumption by up to 47 per cent compared with a conventional powertrain.
Operators can select from four drive modes — Electric, Hybrid, Charge Sustain and Forced Charging — to manage energy use around the route and available charging infrastructure.
The battery can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in approximately 44 minutes. Regenerative braking, electrified auxiliary systems and intelligent energy management also contribute to reducing overall energy demand.
Scania says the combustion engine can operate on renewable fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). When the plug-in hybrid powertrain is combined with HVO, the manufacturer claims CO₂ emissions can be reduced by up to 94 per cent.
“These are two complementary possibilities,” Liss said.
“The plug-in hybrid powertrain reduces fuel consumption by using electricity efficiently throughout the operation. Renewable fuel can then further reduce the CO₂ emissions associated with the fuel that is still needed.”
The i6S Efficient PHEV is also supported by Scania’s digital fleet ecosystem, including tools for monitoring charging and range, analysing driver performance, scheduling predictive maintenance and conducting remote diagnostics.
Aerodynamic improvements and weight reductions incorporated into the Irizar Efficient body further reduce energy consumption.
The Sustainable Bus Award jury recognised the coach’s ability to deliver electric operation in locations where it provides the greatest benefit while retaining the range needed for regional and long-distance services.
For fleet operators, the concept offers an alternative pathway where a fully electric coach may not yet suit the route, charging infrastructure or operational schedule. Its effectiveness, however, will depend on route planning, charging access and how consistently the vehicle’s electric capability is used.
The Sustainable Bus Award is a European program assessing vehicles across performance, safety, passenger comfort, environmental impact and the manufacturer’s broader approach to sustainable transport.
