Solaris sums up 2023. PART TWO: SUSTAINABILITY, PRODUCT & STRATEGY

During the press conference, broadcasted live straight from the heart of Solaris and its headquarters, CEO Javier Iriarte presented Solaris' 2023 results and outlined strategic plans for the coming years. In this edition of the newsletter, you will find a summary of our products, sustainable achievements, goals, and – finally – strategic plans for upcoming years, including our presence in the US market. The overview of achievements over the past year, together with ambitious strategic plans, paints a picture of a strong brand and industry leader.?

?? SUSTAINABILITY?

Sustainability is a key element of Solaris's strategy, a common assumption across the CAF Group. Our mission is not only to develop alternatives to internal combustion engines. It is also to reduce the emissions associated with its production and service processes.??

“We all have our responsibility towards real sustainability. With a more sustainable environment, greener cities, to provide a better world for future generations” – said Javier Iriarte.?

We're pleased to report a very positive evolution in carbon footprint reduction since 2021.?

All Solaris teams are actively working on improving factory-level results and we have deployed comprehensive collaboration programs with our suppliers to achieve even lower carbon emissions. These efforts lead our company to believe that we are on the right track to meet the ambitious goals of the whole CAF group to be net zero emissions in 2045.?

?? PRODUCT?

Product innovation, a wide range portfolio, and a flexible response to technological trends and market needs form the basis of our activities. As a result, Solaris has strengthened its leading position in the European market.??

Today, we offer a complete range of zero-emission solutions for public transport, including 10 models of electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and trolleybuses. This is complemented by a comprehensive range of battery solutions and charging systems, including large-scale infrastructure projects. As well as extensive AfterSales services.?

In recent months the company presented two new vehicles – the Urbino 18 electric and the Urbino 12 electric with an improved design and modular drive, powered by a new generation of batteries.?

These two models prioritize practicality and efficiency, providing operators with strong coverage and performance. Both buses stand out with an impressive 600 km range thanks to the latest Solaris High Energy batteries. The new batteries deliver a 15% increase in energy density compared to the previous generation and a warranty period up to 12 years.?

?? STRATEGIC PLAN?

Today Solaris is in the first phase of the company’s 2026 strategic plan.?

“The aim for the whole CAF Group is to further reinforce our positioning as an integrated mobility solutions provider, becoming a reference in the mobility landscape. And we firmly believe that the efforts will lead to significant growth.”

As part of its development strategy for the coming years, Solaris has identified three key areas of action. One of the priorities is to maintain its position as European leader in the zero-emission vehicle segment. Other strategic pillars include expansion of our product offering in the European intercity market and entering the North American market with a dedicated zero-emission vehicle offer.?

ZERO-EMISSION INTERCITY EXPANSION IN EUROPE?

Over the next few years, Solaris will introduce a new zero-emission intercity platform in three different lengths: 10.9, 12.2, and 13 meters. It is worth noting that each of these models will be available? both in battery and hydrogen vehicles. In developing this segment, Solaris will certainly benefit from the experience gained with the 15-metre Low Entry (LE) model, which was launched in 2020.?

ZERO-EMISSION CITY BUS MARKET IN NORTH AMERICA?

In 2023, Solaris has also taken the strategic decision to enter the North American market with an exclusive offer of zero-emission vehicles.??

“We will leverage our experience, track record, and leading position in the European market, bringing it to North America” – said CEO Javier Iriarte.

The first steps have already been made. In August we successfully showcased our Trollino 12 trolleybus in Vancouver, marking our debut in Canada with very positive feedback from local operators. And now we are developing a pure electric and hydrogen product platform, fully FMVSS and CMVSS compliant.?

“I am confident that a promising future awaits us. Our favorable position for future growth is evident in the impressive number of orders received during 2023. The extensive product portfolio and technology leadership, with over 80% zero and low-emission buses, and a record order backlog of 1.4 B€, is the best proof for that.”?

Interested in more facts? ??

The entire recording of the press conference, including the Q&A session, is still available on our YouTube channel. ?Thank you to everyone who participated in this event! ?

FRIENDLY REMINDER: The full version of Solaris Customer Magazine is accessible at www.magazine.solarisbus.com ???

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