Link between Brussels-Midi station and Brussels South Charleroi Airport: flibco.com and Voyages Léonard trial a 100% electric coach

Charleroi, 29 October 2019 – flibco.com, a company specialising in passenger transport to airports, is working with its partner Voyages Léonard to trial a 100% electric bus this week (from 27 October to 2 November 2019) on its Brussels – Charleroi line. The use of a vehicle like this represents a European first in the airport sector. By using electric coaches, the two companies are keen to reduce their CO2 emissions by 127 tonnes/year per vehicle, and make their journeys to/from Brussels South Charleroi Airport greener.

Voyages Léonard is entering the world of passenger transport with electric vehicles. The first journeys, which began on 27 October, are trials to assess the range of these vehicles.

According to Paul DE MUYNCK, Director of flibco.com Belgium: « During these trials, we want to challenge the vehicles, including in particular when it comes to how much time they need to charge and their range. The charging time is estimated to be 2.5 hours for 200km journeys. These trials will help us see if this is feasible for long journeys. »

Above and beyond the vehicles’ range, they represent a considerable benefit for the environment. By travelling long distances with electric vehicles, 48,000 litres of diesel can be saved every year. A 100% electric coach also makes less noise and so has less of a sound impact. 

The comfort and service on board remain identical to a traditional coach. Passengers will be able to connect to the WiFi network and also use USB charging points. Insofar as the results of these trials are positive, flibco.com plans to swap its existing coaches for electric coaches in order to be more environmentally friendly. 

Philippe VERDONCK, Chief Executive Officer of Brussels South Charleroi Airport explains: « It is important for Brussels South Charleroi Airport to reduce its ecological footprint. Measures have already been taken in terms of our facilities, and we are continuing on this path to reduce the carbon impact of our activities. It is clear that road travel to/from the airport is another factor we need to work on, and we are delighted that a major partner like flibco.com is choosing electric vehicles. »