Stagecoach has become the first operator to order the next-generation Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV battery-electric double-decker. It will take 55 for its Oxfordshire operation, with introduction planned from late 2023.
Part-funding for the buses is coming from the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme. They will be used on both Oxford city services and the wider Oxfordshire network, Alexander Dennis says.
The next-generation Enviro400EV is part of the battery-electric range designed fully in-house by the OEM. All such models come with the Voith Electrical Drive System as well as what Alexander Dennis describes as its “future proof” battery approach. The buses for Stagecoach will have 472kW/h of energy capacity.
Confirmation of an order for the 55 Enviro400EV buses follows a recent call for 200 new diesel Enviro400s from Stagecoach.
Engineering Director Sam Greer says that the latest order follows “a positive track record” between the two businesses.
“We look forward to working with Alexander Dennis and our partners in Oxfordshire to roll out these new electric buses as part of the important plans to improve air quality in the region,” Mr Greer adds.
Speaking about the deal, Alexander Dennis President and Managing Director Paul Davies comments: “We are delighted to have our longstanding partner Stagecoach as the launch customer for the next-generation of battery-electric buses, partnering with us to lead the future success of our coach and bus industry.
“This investment keeps funding from the government’s ZEBRA scheme in the country, improving the lives of passengers and residents as well as accelerating decarbonisation.
“Our new Enviro400EV has been uncompromisingly designed to meet the requirements of bus operation in the UK, introducing the latest advances in technology including our future-proof battery system while guaranteeing first-class aftermarket support through the vehicle’s life through AD24.”
The 55 Enviro400EVs for Stagecoach in Oxfordshire will sit alongside 104 battery-electric Wrightbus models for Oxford Bus Company, part-funded via the same ZEBRA bid.
