US market will be first in partnership with Proterra, but both parties see opportunities in Europe too
Van Hool has selected American designer and manufacturer of zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles Proterra as its partner in the roll-out of electric coaches. Both parties see opportunities for the concept in European markets, including in the UK.
Proterra will provide Van Hool with its E2 battery platform for the Belgian builder’s first electric coach.
It will be a CX45E model for the American market and both companies say that it will be the most efficient and best-performing electric coach yet.
Initial development was driven by Silicon Valley corporate customers, but Proterra – which has not yet exported its vehicles – but it has looked into the potential for electric coach technology in Europe, says CEO Ryan Popple.
“With the United Kingdom, France, Norway and the Netherlands banning future diesel vehicle sales, and setting ambitious electric vehicle goals, the demand for zero-emission fleets will mount across Europe.”
Van Hool says that the electric coach powertrain is designed for long-distance applications. Fewer moving parts, zero tailpipe emissions and a quieter driveline will reduce maintenance costs and improve the passenger environment, it adds.
“We are excited and proud to partner with Proterra, a pioneering company in the development and production of battery technology,” says Van Hool CEO Filip Van Hool.
Proterra’s E2 battery technology recently broke a world record by achieving 1,101 miles in a bus on a single charge. The first CX45E will be completed in late 2018 and deliveries will commence in 2019.
