Cruise line Viking, known for its European river cruises, has launched its first fully electric motor coach. The vehicle is now in service in Vienna and accommodates up to 49 passengers. The company plans to introduce dditional electric coaches across Europe “in the coming years.”

The Viking-branded coach operates exclusively for Viking guests, and joins the company’s existing fleet of motor coaches supporting its shore excursion program in Vienna.

In 2009, Viking introduced hybrid diesel-electric engines and onboard solar panels on some of its vessels.

“We have always been concerned about the environment, which is why we design our ships thoughtfully to reduce fuel consumption,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Electric motor coaches are quieter and offer a zero-emission solution, and we look forward to operating them in many more Viking destinations in the coming months and years.”

Source: Viking