January 26, 2026. Scania France will deliver 201 i4 biogas coaches to the Île-de-France Mobilités public transport network to boost its energy transition. “The organization is looking to increase the share of biogas in its passenger coach fleet (currently 80%),” explains Olivier Toublanc, Key Account Manager for Scania Coaches and Buses. “We are one of the few manufacturers still developing this technology, which offers numerous advantages: it is readily available, reliable, and has controlled costs.”
This exceptional order was placed through the Central Purchasing Platform for Public Transport (CATP). Scania has been registered on the platform since March 2025, which simplifies the purchasing process for local authorities. In this context, Scania responded to subsequent tenders issued by the central purchasing office on behalf of the Île-de-France Mobilités transport network. “As a result, we received two purchase orders for 65 and 136 coaches. The first deliveries will begin at the end of the first quarter of 2026,” adds Toublanc.
The i4 coaches were chosen for their versatility and perfect suitability for intercity transport. Measuring 12.90 meters in length, they are equipped with two axles and state-of-the-art technology. They feature a ZF automatic transmission and a 9-liter Euro 6 engine that runs on compressed biogas, developing 340 hp and 1600 Nm of torque. The level of passenger comfort is high, with air conditioning, a USB port at each of the 60 seats, a lift, and an accessible wheelchair area, among other features.
The vehicles are bodied in Spain by Irizar, using Scania chassis and powertrain components. To meet customer specifications, they are finalized at the Scania Adaptation and Preparation Center (CAPS) in Angers, France. The teams dedicate approximately 100 hours of work per unit to this stage, including ticketing, video surveillance, and passenger counting. Each coach will be customized and painted in the transport network’s colors. These vehicles will be made available to various operators (Transdev, Keolis, RATP, etc.) under a unified visual identity.
During the warranty period, the coaches will receive personalized support. Once prepared by CAPS, the buses will be received by the Scania Île-de-France teams at one of their four locations: Mitry-Mory (77), Saint-Ouen-L’Aumône (95), Fleury-Mérogis (91), or Les Essarts-le-Roi (78).
They will then receive service from expert technicians, specially trained for the specific needs of coaches. “This technical support and the extensive network of service points were key factors in attracting the customer. We will be present alongside the operators to guarantee maximum equipment availability and the continuity of public service,” concludes Toublanc.
