Ebusco is looking at the UK market and is in contact with operators here “to keep a sharp eye on developments,” the Dutch builder of battery-electric buses has said.
Its Ebusco 3.0 products were displayed at Busworld, with the manufacturer claiming that the 12m version (pictured) delivers real-world energy consumption of 0.65kW/h per km. Ebusco puts that efficiency down to composite construction, which in that bus results in an unladen weight of 9,950kg.
The OEM says that use of composites gives a benefit of in the region of 4,000kg compared to a steel build. A lifespan of up to 25 years is claimed, with the Ebusco 3.0 having sandwich walls that are well insulated, further reducing energy consumption.
In its literature on the 3.0 model, Ebusco claims a range of up to 700km for both the 12m example and a 13.5m two-axle model, which it says weighs 11,700kg unladen. An 18m articulated 3.0 comes in at below 15,000kg.
Batteries are within the floor area, which Ebusco says gives a low centre of gravity and enhanced driveability. Notably, single wheels coupled to hub motors are used on the drive axle, which cuts rolling resistance and enhances saloon space, the builder adds.
In addition to bus manufacture, Ebusco has developed energy storage systems, including one that is mobile and multi-purpose and can hold 184kW/h. It says that such provision can allow energy to be “buffered” if grid supply to a depot is difficult. Further information is awaited on any potential entry to the UK market for Ebusco.
