Project Report: Electrification of the Autobus Oberbayern Bus Depot

As part of a forward-looking initiative, SBRS successfully implemented the charging infrastructure of the Autobus Oberbayern (AOB) bus depot. In total, 12 charging stations with 23 charging points were installed to serve the planned fleet of 20 electric buses. The chargers provide power outputs ranging from 150 to 300 kW, ensuring fast and efficient charging. 

Due to the significantly limited space at the site, the implementation was particularly challenging. Nevertheless, the project was successfully completed in close collaboration with our partners. The entire project timeline, from planning to commissioning, was just under one year. 

The greatest technical challenge was installing two 28-meter-long beams without intermediate support on the premises. This required flexible, weekly planning and close coordination among all parties involved. Additional key requirements included integrating the charging infrastructure into ongoing operations, which were only possible through close coordination with the customer, as well as obtaining approval for crane operations under a Deutsche Bahn high-voltage line. The grid connection issue was resolved through an intelligent load management system that prevents extreme power peaks when multiple buses are charging simultaneously. Instead, the available power is evenly distributed to relieve the grid and ensure stable operation. 

One valuable insight from this project is that detailed civil engineering planning during the proposal phase can make the project execution even more efficient. Thanks to close coordination, high flexibility, and strong commitment from all parties, we were able to complete the project successfully and on schedule. 

The project stands out due to its complex site conditions: limited space, high vehicle turnover, and large beams installed under a high-voltage line. It makes an important contribution to electrifying public transport by reducing CO₂ emissions and ensuring efficient energy distribution through load management. Preparatory civil works have already been carried out for an expansion of up to five additional charging stations. In the future, more charging points can be added both on the beams and in the green strip. 

We are particularly proud of the successful completion of this project and the excellent communication and collaboration with the customer. A particularly demanding moment was the precise installation of the 28-meter beams, which required the highest level of coordination and teamwork. Even more gratifying was the positive feedback from AOB’s management, which was passed on to our leadership, a strong sign of the project’s success. Our project manager Simon Witt summed it up perfectly: 
“Only with clear and close communication between all trades and the customer is it possible to deliver such a complex and challenging project.” 

This shows the installed overhead truss systems with integrated charging units that provide power supply points for bus charging operations in another perspective.

The installed SBRS Charger.