Stagecoach orders 55 electric buses
Bus operator has ordered 55 next generation Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV battery-electric buses for Oxfordshire.
The first order is part of the UK Government’s zero emissions bus scheme (ZEBRA) and will see the vehicles on Oxford roads from late 2023.
The firm claims it is the first customer of the new vehicles, which aim to be used in urban corridors and interurban expresses with a range of up to 260 miles on a single charger.
Using a Voith Electric Drive System, the buses have an Alexander Dennis battery system that ensures continuity of supply throughout vehicle life and for modifications mid-life when technology advancements allow.
Sam Greer, Engineering Director for Stagecoach, said: “We’re pleased to be continuing our commitment to move to a zero-emission UK bus fleet by becoming the first operator to make major investment in the new fleet of Enviro400EV buses to operate on our services in Oxford.
“We have a positive track record of working with Alexander Dennis to decarbonise our fleet across the country, including in Scotland where we will shortly be introducing the UK’s first all-electric bus cities. We look forward to working with Alexander Dennis and our partners in Oxfordshire to roll out these new electric buses as part of the important plans to improve air quality in the region.”
Paul Davies, Alexander Dennis President & Managing Director, says: “Our new Enviro400EV has been uncompromisingly designed to meet the requirements of bus operation in the UK, introducing latest advances in technology including our future-proof battery system while guaranteeing first-class aftermarket support throughout the vehicle’s life with AD24.
“We are delighted to have our long-standing partner Stagecoach as the launch customer for the next generation of battery-electric buses, partnering with us to lead the future success of our bus and coach industry. This investment keeps funding from the Government’s ZEBRA scheme in the country, improving the lives of passengers and residents as well as accelerating decarbonisation.”