Two First Buses Retrofitted with Electric Motors in Mayenne

The Region accelerates the electric transition of its intercity mobility with two retrofitted Aléop buses equipped with electric motors.

On Monday, June 2, in Laval, two diesel buses now 100% electric were inaugurated by Daniel Gendry, regional advisor, and Christophe Disier, director of Kéolis Mayenne. These vehicles, assigned to Aléop lines 102 and 105, were converted by the company CBM, based in Le Mans. This operation is part of the regional strategy for the gradual decarbonization of the Aléop fleet, relying on local expertise.

The retrofit consists of replacing a vehicle’s internal combustion engine with an electric motor. It is less expensive than purchasing a new bus and allows for extending the vehicle’s lifespan while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. This solution is particularly relevant in a context of strong budgetary pressure. It balances environmental performance with responsible management of public finances.

An ambitious regional policy

The Pays de la Loire Region includes the renewal of its fleet in each new contract with transporters. Today, 34% of Aléop buses already operate with low-emission engines: 7 electric, 10 hybrid, 120 on biofuel, and 180 on biogas (half of which is for school transport). Mayenne is leading at the regional level. By 2032, its fleet will consist of 18 electric buses (including 10 retrofitted), 33 running on natural gas (GNV), and 28 on vegetable oil.

CBM, the European leader in spare parts for buses and coaches, has strengthened its retrofit activity with its subsidiaries Besset and Retrofleet. After Villeurbanne and Goussainville, the group opened a new conversion center in Sainte-Luce-sur-Loire in 2024.

The performance of retrofitted buses

• 200 km range
• 4 weeks of transformation
• Maintenance-free electric motor for 40 years (school use)
• Digital tracking of consumption
• Fast or slow charging, with controlled costs

The transition is underway, at the heart of the territories!