Builder believes zero-emission will come via batteries; over 150 mile range on single- and double-deck
Optare has unveiled its next-generation double- and single-deck electric bus platforms and says that it has doubled their ranges with no weight implications.
Overnight charging is now at the heart of Optare’s EV strategy. It has significantly increased the on-board energy storage capacity of both the Metrodecker EV and the single-deck EV platform that will be available in the Metrocity, Solo and Versa.
Across the board, in a worst-case scenario of low ambient temperatures and with the use of electric heating, it promises a 150-mile range on a single charge. Hub motors from ZF are now used, which the technology supplier says have improved energy efficiency.
In the Metrodecker, Optare claims to deliver a 94-passenger capacity – but further improvements in range are on the horizon.
“Operators are looking for a range of 200 miles on one charge. We are not far from delivering that,” explains CEO Richard Butler.
The manufacturer says that its EVs are the most energy efficient available. The latest driveline delivers a specific energy consumption reduction of 10% in the Metrodecker EV and optimised ‘smart charging’ is on the agenda.
“We need to deliver an EV product that mirrors the capabilities of a diesel,” adds Mr Butler, who says that Optare’s electric buses are the lightest on the market. In provincial specification, the Metrodecker EV will be available with a sub-11,000kg unladen weight.
Charging will be possible across Optare’s EV range in around three hours.
