The Scania Irizar i6S Efficient PHEV has won the Sustainable Bus Award 2027 in the Coach category, putting plug-in hybrid technology firmly into the spotlight for long-distance passenger transport.
The coach combines a 338 kW Scania Super 13-litre engine, two 145 kW electric machines and an 89 kWh battery, enabling up to 70 km of electric driving in the three-axle configuration and up to 80 km in the two-axle version.
Scania says the system can reduce fuel consumption by up to 47% in favourable operating conditions. Combined with HVO renewable fuel, emissions can be reduced by up to 94%. Four drive modes allow energy use to be adapted to route and charging conditions.
The jury particularly recognised its ability to provide electric operation in urban areas, terminals and zero-emission zones while retaining the range needed for longer journeys — addressing constraints that can still limit fully electric coaches.
Why It Matters:
The award reinforces a broader shift in passenger transport: decarbonisation may require different powertrain solutions for different missions, rather than one technology serving every route.
