Big Bus Tours is poised to introduce its debut new-build full-electric open-topper.
Built by Ankai and displayed at last month’s Busworld show, it will be delivered to Paris, which has set out requirements for all buses to be electric.
It follows three converted Dennis Condors in Washington DC, converted to elelctric power.
Testing will take place with Big Bus Tours using the findings to “produce its future purchasing strategy, considering the part electric vehicles will play in this, alongside other more traditional and other new energy alternatives.”
Gerry Price, Executive Vice President of Operations at Big Bus Tours says: “Electric vehicles are a significant investment for our business as they carry the heavy premium all new technologies do.
“This final phase of our testing plan has completed a period of significant R&D into creating a more environmentally-friendly service and will inform our purchasing strategy globally.
“While the conversions are expensive, some of this is recouped over the operational lifetime of the bus, as operational costs are only 10% of the cost of a diesel equivalent.”
