Alexander Dennis (ADL) and BYD have signed a framework with Ireland’s National Transport Authority (NTA) for the delivery of up to 200 BYD ADL Enviro200EV battery-electric single-deck buses.
The framework, the partnership’s first in the Republic of Ireland and the largest single order for zero-emission buses to date, begins with a firm order for 45 vehicles with delivery commencing in 2022. The first vehicles will provide services in Athlone and the Dublin metropolitan area.
The agreement with NTA will run for up to five years.
“The contract signed for the supply of these battery-electric buses highlights NTA’s commitment to a sustainable and accessible transport network,” says CEO of the National Transport Authority Anne Graham. “Over the next five years we are planning a major increase in the number of low- and zero-emission urban buses in operation on the Transport for Ireland (TfI) network across the country.
“The fleet ordered today represents the best mix of cutting edge electric technology, proven reliability, accessibility and comfort for all passengers who use TfI bus services.
“I look forward to working with our bus operator partners, as well as ADL, in ensuring that the first of these buses are delivered and ready to operate in 2022.”
The buses will be built in ADL’s UK factories with new bodywork and interior. The design of the 12m bus has been tailored to the needs of NTA and its operators. It can be specified in several configurations and includes a version with two doors, a wheelchair space and dedicated pram, pushchair, or buggy area. In terms of the design, ADL has revealed that it illustrates the level of customisation that the manufacturer believes it needs to be successful in the bus market.
ADL President and Managing Director Paul Davies says: “This new agreement for up to 200 zero-emission buses is further testament to our customer focus which is exemplified in our ability to tailor vehicle specifications to operational requirements.
“Together with our existing agreement for up to 600 zero emission capable Enviro400ER plug-in hybrid buses, we are honoured to be playing a key role in the roll-out of zero-emission mobility in Ireland.”
BYD UK Managing Director, Frank Thorpe says the agreement with Ireland’s NTA is one of the most significant commitments to eMobility seen in Europe. “And it is the BYD ADL partnership that appears increasingly to be the preferred choice for local authorities and public transport operators,” he adds. “This framework agreement is a pledge to bringing about a sustainable future for public transport in Ireland and we are delighted to join NTA for Ireland on its journey.”
