Air conditioning systems for modern public transport have to meet a unique set of demands. Space and weight constraints, rapidly changing conditions and working life have a direct impact on operators' investment and running costs, as well as future compatibility. Compressors must also be quiet with low vibration, and be very reliable due to the high cost of downtime.

Bitzer's new Speedlite ELV52 compressor is designed to address these specific requirements for air conditioning electric buses and trains, to ensure a stable and comfortable environment for passengers.

The compact aluminium scroll compressor is around 50 per cent lighter than conventional units, and designed to respond rapidly to the fluctuating heating and cooling demands of transport applications.

It is compatible with a wide range of refrigerants, including low-GWP fluids and propane (R-290), making it future-proof in relation to F-gas regulations and extending working life.

The unit has a wide operating range, enabling it to cater for swings in ambient temperature due to high solar gain and rapid cooling as a result of travel through tunnels.

Compressor output is managed by a separate speed controller that adjusts cooling capacity to current cooling and heating load, ensuring steady temperature control inside the vehicle at all times. This results in higher efficiency, not only for the Speedlite ELV52 but the entire system.

Importantly, unlike some other scroll compressors, Speedlite ELV52 can be used as part of a heat pump-based system to heat and cool vehicles. Thanks to its integrated economiser, the compressor offers excellent performance even in low ambient temperatures, further reducing operating costs and supporting decarbonisation efforts.