Go-Ahead London has placed an order with Optare for a batch of 17 battery-electric Metrodecker EV double-deckers. They will operate from Merton depot. The deal is the fifth Metrodecker EV order placed to date. It will take to 108 the number in service by May 2021.
Optare has worked closely with Go-Ahead London since the Metrodecker EV was in development. The operator trialled a demonstrator in 2018, during which time “a lot” was learned about the bus and its zero-emission heating system. That feedback played a significant part in the final design of the production bus, which was launched later in 2018.
Says Go-Ahead London Engineering Director Richard Harrington: “As an EV leader in London, we have built a good understanding of zero-emission bus operation. We were pleased to provide feedback and guidance to Optare during the development process and we have been impressed with the production Metrodecker EV in recent service trials.
“The bus is a good fit for route 200. We look forward to a successful rollout and a successful partnership with Optare.”
Adds Optare Commercial Director Robert Drewery: “We are thrilled to be involved in the electrification of route 200. We see this order as another step in our cooperation with Go-Ahead London and the development of our zero-emission solutions.”
