Bucher CityCat VR17e

The CityCat VR17e is Bucher Municipal's compact, fully electric sweeper built for dense urban environments. With 3500 kg gross vehicle weight and 1400 kg payload, it is in the 3.5-tonne class and can be driven on a standard car driving licence, with no special licences required. This gives fleet owners and municipalities greater flexibility in who can operate the machine. Bucher highlights the combination of high suction power, zero-emission operation and the ability to make its way through narrow streets, alleys, cycle lanes, pedestrian streets and other areas that larger sweepers cannot reach.

Battery and charging

The 55 kWh battery pack uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP), chosen for its safety and thermal stability. Bucher states a minimum of 10 hours of operating time on a single charge and a service life of up to 15 000 operating hours with consistent capacity over time. Charging takes four to five hours with 11 kW alternating current through the Type 2 inlet, or under 60 minutes with 45 kW direct current via CCS Combo 2 – enough for another full shift. Depending on the selected regeneration level, the high-voltage battery is also charged during deceleration.

The rear axle is electrically driven with a differential, and the hydraulic power unit is electrically driven with quiet gear pumps for steering, auxiliary functions and brush drive. The external noise level is 91 dB(A) according to 2000/14/EC, which makes round-the-clock operation possible, even in residential areas.

Steering and sweeping

The machine has hydrostatic four-wheel steering and a turning circle of 4370 mm from kerb to kerb (5490 mm wall to wall), which Bucher describes as best in class. With two-wheel steering, the corresponding figures are 5820 and 7170 mm.

The brush system is a pushed system, with the side brushes placed directly ahead of the front axle so that the driver has a clear view of them and the material is collected before it passes under the vehicle. The sweeping width is adjustable from 1200 mm to 2400 mm, and the four-wheel steering keeps the brushes in line even in tight bends, so that nothing is left behind. The side brushes are Ø 800 mm with infinitely variable speed 0–120 rpm and impact-protected suspension. The suction system is based on Bucher's well-proven solution with a wide, straight suction tube and an energy-optimised fan, which gives a powerful air flow and low risk of clogging.

Hopper and water

The 1.7 m³ hopper is made of hard-wearing aluminium, which keeps the weight down and increases the payload. It can be operated both from outside and from the cab, the discharge height is 1350 mm, and a large, easy-to-clean filter screen keeps the air speed up in the leaf season. Water recycling is fitted as standard and reuses the water in the hopper. This reduces refilling costs and extends the time out on the job. The fresh water tank holds 235 l.

Cab, controls and brakes

The machine has independent wheel suspension on the front and rear axles. The cab is suspended and sound-insulated. It has an individually adjustable, suspended driver's seat with headrest and three-point seat belt, an angle- and height-adjustable steering column, a windscreen of heat-reflecting, curved and anti-reflective safety glass and sliding windows in each door.

The machine is operated via the Smart-Con multifunction armrest with a 4.3-inch display for one-handed operation, with a CSense 10.1-inch touchscreen for extended settings and visual diagnostics. The brakes are drum brakes front and rear, chosen for long service life, low maintenance and reduced particle emissions.