Poland-based electric bus manufacturer Solaris Bus & Coach has launched a new retrofit service aimed at upgrading older electric buses with modern battery and drivetrain technologies. This initiative helps fleet operators enhance performance, extend vehicle life, and reduce environmental impact.
Solaris Retrofit Service: Modernizing Older E-Buses
Solaris’ retrofit service replaces and upgrades key components of existing electric buses, including battery packs, battery management systems, and drivetrain elements. The service is designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance expenses, and extend the operational lifespan of older vehicles, allowing operators to maximize the value of their existing investments.
The program offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new buses, making it easier for operators to keep fleets up-to-date with evolving zero-emission standards.
First Deployments: MPK Kraków and European Operators
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Solaris has already implemented the retrofit service for MPK Kraków, upgrading 20 buses—seventeen 12-meter units and three 18-meter articulated buses—with new batteries and updated systems.
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The retrofit service is available across Solaris-certified service centers in Europe, with plans to expand to other cities and regions.
Technical Upgrades and Features
The retrofit program includes:
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Replacement or upgrade of battery packs with options such as LFP, NMC, or LTO batteries based on operational needs.
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Implementation of Battery Thermal Management Systems (BTMS) for optimized performance and safety.
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Overhaul or update of Battery Management Systems (BMS) to ensure compatibility with newer technologies.
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Upgrades to drivetrain components are optional to meet current performance standards.
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Complete lifecycle support, including old battery disposal, installation, testing, and documentation.
Sustainability and Cost-Efficiency
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By retrofitting existing electric buses, Solaris helps operators reduce total cost of ownership while maintaining fleet performance.
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The service supports sustainable urban mobility, minimizing waste from obsolete EV components.
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Fleet operators can adopt newer technologies without the need for full fleet replacement, aligning with environmental and economic objectives.
Future Potential
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Solaris plans to scale the retrofit program to more cities and service centers across Europe.
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Future expansions may include trolleybus retrofits and hydrogen-powered bus upgrades as alternative zero-emission technologies gain adoption.
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This retrofit approach reflects a growing trend in EV fleet management: upgrading vehicles to meet modern standards rather than complete replacement, offering both sustainability and financial advantages.
Solaris’ retrofit service positions the company as a pioneer in extending the lifespan of electric buses while supporting the global transition to zero-emission public transport.
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