busplaner Innovation Award 2025

Konvekta AG was honored with the busplaner Innovation Award 2025 in the vehicle equipment category for its CO₂ heat pump UL 700 EM. The award is based on evaluations by industry representatives and reflects the growing importance of thermal management in electric city buses.

With the increasing electrification of bus fleets, the role of climate control is fundamentally changing. While waste heat from conventional drivetrains could previously be used for heating purposes, this energy must now be fully generated in electric buses. Climate systems therefore represent a key factor influencing range, operational reliability, and economic efficiency.

The UL 700 EM CO₂ heat pump is part of an integrated thermal management system that jointly considers the passenger compartment, driver’s area, as well as the battery and power electronics. The objective is to use the energy available in the vehicle as efficiently as possible. A central approach is the integration of existing waste heat. Through modules such as “Energy Collect”, heat from components like axles or the battery can be incorporated into the heat pump circuit, thereby reducing overall energy demand.

The use of the natural refrigerant CO₂ (R744) also ensures a long-term stable solution. CO₂ is non-flammable, PFAS-free, and not subject to any foreseeable regulatory restrictions.

The award thus highlights a fundamental development in public transport: thermal management is increasingly becoming a key lever for economic efficiency and reliable vehicle availability in electric operation.