Metroline has ordered a further 28 Volvo BZL Electric singe-deck buses, with the vehicles expected to enter service on two routes in London in the first quarter of 2024.
The operator, a subsidiary of ComfortDelGro, already has 48 of the zero-emission buses on order following an agreement in November 2022. The first of those will be delivered this summer.
The 10.8m-long buses will be bodied by MCV, who will equip them with twin double doors and 29 seats in accordance with Transport for London specifications. Powered by 200 kW low-loss electric motors, a two-stage automated gearbox is designed to improve efficiency and decrease wear by increasing wheel torque at low speeds and evening out current peaks.
They will operate on the 316 Cricklewood-White City and 228 Central Middlesex Hospital-Maida Hill routes, which Metroline will take on from January 2024.
ComfortDelGro (UK) Group Engineering Director Adrian Jones says: “We continue to make significant investments to introduce more electric buses into our operation, and this latest order demonstrates the confidence we have in Volvo Buses and the aftersales support it provides.
“Metroline has been pioneering the roll-out of fully electric routes in London for some time, and with an excellent track record. We are excited to be extending the benefits of riding on some of the cleanest, quietest, and most sustainable buses in the capital, to more of our customers.”
The new BZLs will have the support of Volvo field service technicians in Enfield and Haye.
Richard Mann, Regional Sales Director – South at Volvo Bus UK & Ireland, says: “With the new Volvo BZL Electric we have a fantastic single and double-deck product which is quickly finding favour with major fleets, and is going to look fantastic operating in London’s iconic red livery.
“Metroline is a terrific customer to work with; the team know precisely what they want from a manufacturer, and we have every confidence in our new BZL Electric to impress in service.”
