The iBUS project brings together the Portuguese cork, leather, design and engineering industries in the construction of lighter, more comfortable, self-sufficient buses.
Caetano Components, Amorim Cork Composites, Couro Azul, SET and the INEGI joined forces in partnership with AlmaDesign and CaetanoBus in an integrated research and development project for interior and exterior components for tourist coach bodywork.
The iBUS project is receiving support from the COMPETE R&TD incentive system and involves a total investment of €947,837, with an ERDF incentive of €485,217. Its aim is the acquisition of new technological competences by developing and integrating components and systems for the construction of a transversal (interior and exterior), section called a mock-up. This will make it possible to view, test and validate solutions for future use in tourist coach bodywork. Its motto is Integrated, Lighter, More Ecological and More Comfortable.
The main innovative characteristic of the project is the integrated component design by suppliers upstream in the supply chain (whereas this is currently done by the final assembler). This approach has made it possible to develop solutions for bodywork interiors in sensitive areas where it was previously impossible to innovate: weight, comfort and eco-efficiency.
The project's final goal is to market a product with incremental improvements - product innovation, with the general objective of developing the skills of all the members of the partnership.
Find out more on www.ibus.com.pt.