Chile develops the first electric bus in history to operate in Antartica.
Chile takes an unprecedented step and achieves a new milestone in electromobility by launching the first electric bus manufactured in the country to operate in Antarctica. Developed by Reborn Electric Motors and operated by DAP, this innovative vehicle stands out for its robust design, high energy efficiency, advanced safety, capacity for 24 passengers, and telemetry technology. Following the success of its first three months of operation, Reborn Electric Motors, Chile’s first electric bus factory, and DAP, the world’s leading Antarctic air operator, are initiating a long-term collaboration.
In a historic moment for Chilean technological development and sustainability, Reborn Electric Motors and DAP announced the first electric bus to operate in Antarctica, entirely manufactured in Chile. This achievement represents a significant advance in electromobility under extreme conditions, showcasing the innovative capabilities of the national industry and laying the foundation for medium- and long-term collaboration between these two Chilean companies.
The project originated from an initiative by DAP—the world's main Antarctic air operator—which sought to test the feasibility of an electric bus for its operations on the Antarctic Continent. In December 2023, DAP contacted Reborn Electric Motors to begin a three-month trial period. From that date until March 2024, the tests were successful, leading DAP to acquire the bus and incorporate it permanently into its operational fleet. The pilot was accompanied by Nicolás Medina González, an engineer from Reborn, who provided valuable technical insights during the Antarctic trial: “Seeing how the Queltehue Heavy Duty performed under the harsh Antarctic conditions was proof that Chilean engineering is up to any challenge,” the expert said.
“This milestone represents a remarkable technological achievement, particularly in the context of applying electric buses in extreme conditions. In Europe, major manufacturers test their buses in Finland and the Sahara Desert. Reborn Electric Motors, proudly Chilean, has successfully operated its buses in both the Atacama Desert and now Antarctica, thereby validating its technology in the world’s most challenging environments. This validation also opens the door to deploying electric buses in rural areas of continental Chile, where such vehicles are not yet in operation,” said Ricardo Repenning and Felipe Cevallos, co-founders of Reborn Electric Motors.
Nicolás Pivcevic, Executive Director of DAP, emphasized, “This project reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation. Introducing this electric bus in Antarctica is a significant step toward more responsible operations with reduced impact on this unique environment.”
Reborn Queltehue Heavy Duty: From Rancagua to Antarctica
The Queltehue Heavy Duty model by Reborn Electric Motors is a fully electric vehicle with a capacity for 24 passengers. Its robust build includes a Senior G7 Heavy Duty body from Marcopolo, compliant with the ECE R66.02 rollover standard. Initially designed for the demanding conditions of underground mining, the Queltehue Heavy Duty is also capable of operating in extreme environments like Antarctica, a feat few electric buses can achieve.
Equipped with a permanent magnet synchronous motor, the Queltehue delivers a maximum power of 215 kW and a peak torque of 2,430 Nm. This iconic electric bus features pneumatic drum brakes, an ABS system, regenerative braking, and parabolic leaf spring suspension with telescopic shock absorbers. The interior includes synthetic leather reclining seats with three-point seat belts. The climate control system features forced heating and split-type air conditioning, while the telemetry system supports predictive maintenance.
Reborn Electric Motors and DAP Airlines: Beginning a Collaborative Journey
Founded in 2017 by Ricardo Repenning and Felipe Cevallos, Reborn Electric Motors is Chile’s first and only electric bus factory. With over 100 units operating across Chile and the historic achievement of exporting the first electric bus developed in the country to Brazil, Reborn has cemented its position as a leader in zero-emission vehicles in Latin America. In 2022, the company inaugurated its factory in Rancagua, and in 2023, it participated in COP28 in Dubai. Recently, it announced further international expansion by exporting its urban model to Brazil.
DAP, renowned for its commitment to sustainability in Antarctica, has been a pioneer in connectivity to remote regions since its founding in 1980. With a strong dedication to minimizing its environmental impact in Antarctica, DAP encourages its passengers to become "Antarctic Ambassadors," urging respectful visits and active contributions to the continent's preservation. With nearly 44 years of history, DAP continues to innovate, delivering value to its clients, collaborators, communities, and the environment.
This historic milestone in the partnership between Reborn Electric Motors and DAP not only drives the advancement of Chilean technology but also strengthens the commitment to environmental protection in Antarctica. Once again, Chile positions itself as a global leader in environmental conservation and the development of technologies that push boundaries.