150km range for tri-axle double-decker; two-axle model will follow and London is a target
The first battery-powered open-top double-decker to be produced by Ayats was exhibited at last week’s FIAA show in Madrid, with the three-axle bus soon to enter service on demonstration in Barcelona.
A two-axle prototype is likely to follow, says Ayats, because it sees opportunities for such a product in cities such as Paris and London.
In London, The Original Tour has already stated that, if a suitable electric open-topper becomes available, it is likely to begin a move to zero emission from 2018’s orders.
As displayed at the FIAA show, the tri-axle open-topper seats 78, with 65 of those upstairs. It has two staircases and the structure displays a number of similarities to the Eclipse coach.
It has space for a wheelchair user and is to full open-top layout with a rear-to-front canopy.
Ayats says that the open-topper will give a range of 150km, and its electric powertrain is provided by Actia.
As with the diesel-powered Ayats open-toppers recently delivered to The Original Tour, space for the drivetrain is extensive and all batteries are mounted in what would otherwise be the engine bay. Ayats adds that it will be possible to customise the electric open-topper to suit customers’ needs.
On the demonstrator, weatherproof plastic seats are fitted on both decks and access for a wheelchair user is via the centre door. At 13 seats, its lower deck capacity is modest but it is understood that that total can be increased.
Importer Ayats UK Coach Sales has already said that it intends to bring the zero-emission open-topper here.
