Volvo Buses is redefining the future of public transportation with the launch of Luminus, a fully electric city bus designed from the ground up using circular economy principles. With sustainability at the core of its design, Luminus represents a major leap in Volvo Buses’ commitment to creating environmentally responsible mobility solutions.
Built on the proven BZL chassis, Luminus boasts a 90% recyclability rate for its chassis and 60% for its body, integrating circular thinking into every stage—from material selection to end-of-life planning. At the heart of the process is a collaborative approach that brings together product development, operations, marketing, and purchasing to optimize sustainability across the entire value chain.
“Sustainability for us goes beyond the bus,” said Per Olson, Vice President of Platform Development at Volvo Buses. “That’s why it’s vital that we integrate circularity into product development from day one.”
From Electric Mobility to Energy Storage
One of the unique features of Luminus is its batteries’ planned second life. Instead of being recycled immediately after their use in transit, the batteries are slated to serve as energy storage units at Volvo Buses’ Tultitlán production facility in Mexico—significantly reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
The Tultitlán facility has already reduced its carbon footprint by over 60% since early 2024 through renewable energy usage and efficiency upgrades. This aligns with Volvo Buses’ larger sustainability targets: cutting emissions from its own operations by 50% and reducing vehicle emissions per kilometer by 40%, all by 2030.
Luminus Gains Traction with Global Clients
OMA, the airport operator in Monterrey, Mexico, was among the first to acquire the Luminus model. According to Monterrey Airport Administrator Raful Zacarías, Volvo’s holistic approach to sustainability played a critical role in the decision.
“We don’t see this product as just a bus, but as a contribution to environmental care,” Zacarías said. “The development and manufacturing process—from material selection to emission reduction—demonstrates true environmental commitment.”
Engineering with Tomorrow in Mind
Per Olson and Johan Wistrand, Specialist Mechanical Engineer at Global Bus Technology, are leading voices behind Luminus’ design strategy. Their focus on future-proofing vehicles through circular engineering showcases how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.
With Luminus, Volvo Buses not only delivers on electric mobility but also charts a new course for the automotive industry—one that begins and ends with the planet in mind.
