Karsan showcases new Atak Electric bus in Germany

Turkey based Karsan introduced the newest member of its electric product line, Atak Electric, at a global event in Munich. The event, co-organised with BMW, was centred around the theme “New Definition of Mobility.”

Atak Electric, powered by BMW i technologies has been given a totally new design. It was tested by press members, clients and distributors from all over the world at the event. Five BMW I batteries, each rated at 44 kWh and combined capacity of 220 kWh run the Atak Electric providing a range of up to 300 kilometres on a single charge. With this range and fast charging up to 3 hours, Atak can continue to operate without charging throughout the day. Added to this performance, a dynamic design, a very comfortable interior and innovative technologies made Atak Electric an instant winner among the guests.

Jest Electric, the first product born out of Karsan's cooperation with BMW, has been an instant success. Karsan CEO Okan Baş, announced that 35 Jest Electrics have already gone into use in a number of European countries including France, Germany and Greece. Only one year post the launch of Jest Electric, Karsan has launched electric version of the bus Atak.

“In collaboration with BMW, which is a pioneering automotive brand in terms of electric vehicle technologies, we are producing electrically-powered mass transport solutions for the whole world. We are thrilled to launch Atak Electric, a pioneer in the market with its long range, unique technologies and dimensions, and with a brand new look. As a 100% Turkish brand, we also became the first company to develop and start mass production of two electric vehicles in one year,” said Okan Baş, Karsan CEO.

Noting that Karsan offers a 4 year and 200,000 km warranty for its BMW batteries, Karsan CEO Okan Baş, also emphasised that Atak Electric has price advantage compared to its competitors, considering its technological features and comfort options. Baş went on to say, “In August 2019 we will launch roadshows in countries such as France, Germany, Romania, Italy, Portugal and Bulgaria, and these roadshows will continue until the end of the year. We will first target the European markets with Atak Electric and start serial production of the model in August. Our strong cooperation with BMW will continue and we hope that we will do even better in the future with brand new transport solutions”.

The vehicle's batteries can be charged in 5 hours with double AC charging, and in 3 hours with fast DC charging units. A regenerative braking system also recycles power which enables the batteries to self-recharge up to 25%.

Atak Electric comes with brand new and dynamic front and rear lines, and creates a striking look with its LED lamps. It has a 10.1-inch multimedia touchscreen, fully digital 12.3-inch cluster, keyless start & stop, USB ports and Wi-Fi-ready base, adding higher functionality to its superior technology, comfort, long range and high battery capacity for the very best and most modern mass transport solution. Thanks to its electrically operated air suspension system, it brings the same level of comfort as private cars. Atak Electric offers two seating layout options, 18+4 or 21+4 seats and a total capacity of 52 passengers.

Over than 50 years of Turkish automotive history, Karsan has been manufacturing its own vehicles as well as parts for the world's prominent brands in the commercial vehicles sector. Since 1981 the company has been carrying out all of these operations with 100% domestic capital. Its factory in Bursa, Hasanağa, can manufacture up to 18,200 vehicles in a year on a single shift. Hasanağa factory is a flexible installation which can manufacture automobiles, trucks, minivans and buses in the same facilities. It has been established on a 206,000 square metre area, 90,000 square metre of which is closed space.