Germany / Spain / Norway – In late April, Hübner GmbH & Co. KG (Hübner Group) of Kassel, Germany, launched a hybrid ramp (either manual or electronic) for buses, making it easier for disabled passengers to board. Manufactured in Kassel, this hybrid version means operators no longer must choose between manual or electrically operated ramps, with both combined in one unit. The first 250 double ramps are currently in use in Madrid as well as 336 in Oslo, utilised in Solaris buses.

Whilst developing the product, Hübner combined two proven ramp models, the electric ramp IL 2502, which is integrated in the bus chassis and the manual folding ramp, HK Modular, which is located at the same level as the vehicle floor. The company focused on simplicity in the product design: The cover of the ramp can easily be removed in the event of any maintenance or repairs, making it quick and simple to install and maintain.

Florian Klotz, Sales Manager for entry systems in the HÜBNER Group, said: 

Our advantage is that with our innovative entry systems, we can offer solutions to customers that are clearly more flexible, more convenient and also more service-friendly than the competition. The most important benefit of the new double ramp is that in the event of a breakdown in the automatic components, the driving personnel can use the manual folding ramp and continue operation without any limitations. Downtimes while waiting for the delivery of spare parts are also eliminated. The double ramp combines convenience with dependability. Transit companies thus have the highest degree of certainty that their buses will be able to run. Finally, any downtime results in added costs.