Mandatory Zero-Emission Buses in Cities with Over 100,000 Inhabitants from 2026

New Regulations on Electromobility

According to the amendment to the Act on Electromobility and Alternative Fuels of November 21, 2024, from 2026, cities with over 100,000 inhabitants will be required to purchase only zero-emission buses for public transportation purposes. The aim of these regulations is to reduce pollution emissions and improve air quality in Polish cities, as well as support the development of renewable energy sources and charging
infrastructure.

For battery system manufacturers and public transport operators, this means the necessity to adapt to new requirements and invest in modern technologies that ensure high energy efficiency and operational safety.

Batteries in Zero-Emission Transport

Currently, batteries based on NMC, LFP, and LTO chemistries dominate tenders for electric buses, responding to the growing demands of public transport operators. LFP batteries are rapidly gaining popularity, mainly due to their attractive price.

At the same time, NMC batteries, which offer higher energy density, resulting in a longer range on a single charge, are also widely used. An example of such a solution is the UVES ENERGY GEN 3.0 system from IMPACT, which combines high power with optimal operational parameters, ensuring stability and energy efficiency. Both technologies are widely used in public transportation, meeting various operational
requirements and investment strategies of operators.

Until alternative solutions with similar properties emerge, LTO chemistry dominates in hydrogen vehicles and trolleybuses, due to its exceptional durability and resistance to fast charging cycles. In the case of trolleybuses, High Power NMC batteries are also gaining increasing recognition.

For detailed information on the technology and solutions used in batteries, please visit: Technology – IMPACT Clean Power Technology.

Key Infrastructure for Zero-Emission Bus Operations

To ensure smooth operation of zero-emission buses, it is essential to establish the right infrastructure. Key components include charging stations, which encompass both DC fast chargers for energy replenishment during short stops and AC chargers intended for overnight charging at depots.

Equally important are energy management systems, which optimize charging and monitor energy consumption, increasing fleet operational efficiency. Proper service infrastructure, including specialized workshops and qualified technical staff for ongoing vehicle maintenance, is also critical.

With such infrastructure in place, electric buses can operate seamlessly, supporting the development of sustainable urban transport.

How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge a Bus Battery?

The charging time for electric buses depends on several key factors. For instance, an electric bus equipped with an NMC battery system with a capacity of 450 kWh, at a charging power of 350 kW, will charge in about 60 minutes from 10% to 80% SOC. Overnight charging, covering the SOC range from 10% to 90%, will take between 4 to 6 hours. A trolleybus with an LTO battery system with a capacity of 60 kWh, at a charging power of 350 kW, will be fully charged in 20 minutes from 10% to 80% SOC. These charging levels ensure minimal degradation of the battery system, contributing to a long service life.

DC fast chargers, with power ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW, enable quick energy replenishment, especially for vehicles with large battery capacities. Shorter charging times are crucial for efficient operation of electric buses, where vehicle availability is of significant importance. It is also worth noting that the charging process depends not only on the charger’s power but also on the quality of the entire electrical installation, including cables and connectors (e.g., CCS2).

Prospects for the Development of Zero-Emission Transport in Poland

Sustainable Development and the Future of Public Transport

The development of public transport in Poland is heading toward ecological and sustainable solutions. Investments in modern technologies and electromobility are essential to achieve the goal of reducing the environmental impact of transport. In the long term, this transformation will contribute to a better quality of life for residents in both large cities and smaller towns.

In light of upcoming regulations and the growing need for changes in urban transport, businesses and engineers in the EV industry will need to take concrete steps to adapt to the new reality. Collaboration in this area will be key to the effective transformation of Poland’s transportation system.

IMPACT’s Role in the Development of Zero-Emission Public Transport

IMPACT Clean Power Technology is a company with 20 years of experience in manufacturing advanced battery systems, which form the foundation for zero-emission electric buses. IMPACT batteries stand out due to their high capacity, long life cycle, and reliability, making them the optimal solution for public transportation.

By implementing an efficient cooling system and an advanced Battery Management System (BMS), IMPACT batteries guarantee efficiency and safety. These technologies are especially important in cities where clean transport zones have been introduced, where reliability, safety, and energy efficiency of electric vehicles
are crucial for the sustainable development of public transport.

The technical contribution was provided by Karol Marasek, Sales Manager at IMPACT Clean Power Technology.