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EBSF_2 is a research project led by the International Association of Public Transport and funded by the European Union with the aim of increasing attractiveness and efficiency of urban bus systems. EBSF_2 combines experiments with research as it relies on demonstrators, i.e. innovative technologies are tested on vehicles operating in 12 European bus networks and evaluated through a methodology to assess the soundness of the innovations and their affordability. The innovations under test are different, but increased energy efficiency is the goal for several test sites which are working to: a) advance energy management of buses, b) lower the energy needed for on-board heating, ventilating and cooling; c) develop energy-efficient driver support systems. The paper describes how the topic energy efficiency is addressed within the EBSF_2 demonstrators. The assessment methodology designed to measure the performance variations in each demonstrator and cross-case is presented, together with the testing scenarios for three demonstrators and the preliminary results achieved.

The paper focuses on the methodology and the test process adopted in Ravenna and Forlì (Italy), within the EBSF_2 research project, where a demonstrator to improve predictive management performance was tested. This relied on a maintenance software to analyze data coming from sensors assessing the engine oil quality, therefore detecting potential breakdowns and replacing spare parts in advance; the system also identifies which metals or problems concurred to the oil poor quality. The test involves three urban diesel-fueled urban buses in Forlì and three methane-fueled urban buses in the Ravenna, for a total of 27 lines and a maintenance staff of 20 units, over an 12-month testing period. Since the initial results, the sensor-based system proved to be effective. Test results are analyzed and operational and environmental benefits highlighted, with the research goal to advance scientific knowledge in this field.

ELIPTIC (2015-2018) is a project funded by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 framework, to develop 20 new concepts to optimise existing electric public transport infrastructure and rolling stock. ELIPTIC deploys such new concepts on 21 use cases in 11 cities across Europe. The goal is to demonstrate that the further take-up of electric vehicles can be done in a cost-efficient way, with tangible effects on the urban environment. The ELIPTIC outcomes are independently assessed according to a methodology specifically designed. ELIPTIC also relies on a User Forum involving public transport practitioners who assist in the development of the project, providing feedback. The paper therefore describes the ELIPTIC concepts under test and the adopted assessment methodology, along with the outcomes thus far achieved, with the goal to provide advanced scientific knowledge for further applications beyond ELIPTIC.

Congestion, energy consumption, pollution, and the need to increase transport system sustainability are top-priority problems in urban areas. Most European cities are beset with these issues; hence, the European Commission financially supports projects aimed at reducing the negative effects of vehicles on the environment by increasing accessibility, optimizing economic resources in transport management, and improving citizens’ quality of life. Presented are the main findings of one of these projects, Multi-Initiatives for Rationalised Accessibility and Clean Liveable Environments (Miracles), which focused on the measures implemented by the Rome municipality during the project, including incentives to attract passengers to transit and disincentives to the use of private cars. In particular, the most relevant aspects, such as restriction of vehicle access to the city center, road pricing, goods delivery reorganization, and the development of collective taxis, are analyzed because of their innovative features and their potential to achieve improvements. Also discussed is the suitable methodology, applied in the Rome case study, for controlling and validating all the implementation steps. Particular attention was paid to the simulation of scenarios that can be used to assess the feasibility of pricing-related measures and how they can affect the built environment. In conclusion, the paper outlines users’ reactions to the restriction policy changes.