truckbuses

Truckbuses, also known as articulated buses or bi-articulated buses when they have two articulation points, are a type of high-capacity public transport vehicle. They are essentially two or more rigid sections connected by a pivoting articulation. This design allows the vehicle to negotiate corners more easily than a single rigid vehicle of equivalent length. The primary advantage of truckbuses is their ability to carry a significantly larger number of passengers than conventional buses, making them suitable for high-demand routes or for use as shuttle buses in congested areas.

The concept of articulated buses has been around for decades, with early designs appearing in the mid-20th century. Modern truckbuses are typically powered by a diesel engine, though hybrid and fully electric versions are increasingly being developed and deployed. The passenger capacity can range from around 70 to over 120 people, depending on the specific configuration and seating arrangement. They are often used in bus rapid transit (BRT) systems where their capacity and efficiency contribute to high passenger throughput. The articulated sections are connected by a flexible bellows, allowing for movement between the sections while maintaining passenger containment. Maintenance and operational costs can be higher than standard buses due to their complexity and size, but this is often offset by the increased passenger capacity and reduced need for multiple vehicles on busy routes.