A new era has begun at Munich Airport: AeroGround, the airport’s wholly owned subsidiary for ground handling, is converting its entire apron bus fleet to fully electric MAN Lion’s City E vehicles. Over the coming years, up to 74 emission-free eBuses are set to enter service. To make this electrifying development tangible, MAN Truck & Bus and Munich Airport have jointly launched the six-part social media series “Boarding by eBus”. The intro to the series is now available on the social media channels of MAN and Munich Airport.
The “Patrikant” conquers the airfield
At the centre of the campaign is Patrik, a highly motivated intern – affectionately called “Patrikant” – who discovers the world of electric apron buses under the guidance of experienced AeroGround bus driver Franz. The dynamic between this odd couple provides entertainment: on one side, the lively Patrik; on the other, the ever-composed Franz. Together, they take viewers behind the scenes at Munich Airport and make electromobility tangible.
Electromobility as the key to Net Zero 2035
Behind the humorous format lies a clear message: Munich Airport is pursuing the ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2035 at the latest. The conversion to MAN Lion’s City E buses is a central component of this strategy. Already, 37 electric apron buses are operating on the airfield, and in future up to 74 vehicles will transport passengers, crew members and airport employees. Where diesel engines once rumbled, whisper-quiet electric buses now glide across the apron – a win for the climate, passenger comfort and the working quality of life for staff.
A modern profession with a future
At the same time, “Boarding by eBus” addresses an industry-wide issue: the driver shortage. The series demonstrates that steering a state-of-the-art, twelve-metre-long electric bus at an international airport is not only responsible work, butalso fascinating and future-proof. In doing so, MAN and Munich Airport aim to inspire new target groups to consider the profession of bus driver.
Six episodes with exciting insights
After Patrik gets his first taste of airport life in the first episode, the journey really takes off in the subsequent five episodes. Viewers can look forward to exciting insights: from charging the buses with the distinctive CCS connectors, to conversations with AeroGround experts, to Patrik’s impatient desire to get behind the wheel of the MAN Lion’s City E himself. Additionally, the clips illuminate the functionality, assistance systems and advantages of electric buses, as well as the special features of operating them at an airport.
