Alexander Dennis ups warrantable battery energy throughputs
Alexander Dennis has upped the warrantable energy throughput for the traction battery packs fitted to the Enviro100EV and Enviro400EV next-generation buses in a move that it says draws “on the versatility of NMC cell chemistry.”
When either model is equipped with 354kWh of battery capacity, the warranted energy throughput – which includes regeneration – can be 1.2GWh over eight years. For the Enviro400EV with 472kWh of batteries, that figure is 1.6GWh, while the Enviro100EV in 236kWh form has a warrantable throughput of 800,000kWh.
Upon debut of both models in November 2023, Alexander Dennis said that the 472kWh battery configuration then had an overall energy throughput of 1.4GWh before replacement would be required at 70% of original capacity. At that time, it believed that 1.4GWh was 40% higher than any competitor vehicle.
Group Sales and Business Development Director Ben Werth says that energy throughput is “critical” to calculating the longevity of batteries. Upping of the eight-year warrantable figures has come thanks to the use of multi-physics simulation modelling.
Adds Mr Werth: “The option to warrant higher intensity battery use is great news for operators planning to deploy electric buses on heavy-duty or high-mileage services.
“We are delighted to be driving value through longevity by giving our customers peace of mind that our next-generation electric buses will offer longer-term operational profitability.”
10- and 12-year battery warranty options are also available, Alexander Dennis says, with warranty lengths and warrantable throughputs tailored to suit the customer's needs.
Both buses use batteries supplied by Impact Clean Power Technologies. Alexander Dennis Group Engineering Director Chris Gall previously said that NMC chemistry was chosen because of a requirement for slim battery packs to fit within the chassis.
Navigating the future: Digitising coach and bus operations with Zeelo
It goes without saying; the realm of mobility is evolving at an unprecedented pace. For coach and bus operators, remaining ahead in the 21st century requires embracing digital transformation. As the heartbeat of urban and suburban transportation, operators play a pivotal role in connecting communities and facilitating seamless transport. Another key player facilitating this evolution is Zeelo, an innovative platform that not only propels coach and bus operations into the digital age but also enriches the experience for both clients and riders.
Expanding fleet reach and profitability with Zeelo
In the pursuit of operational excellence, maximising fleet utilisation and revenue is paramount. Zeelo's distinctive strength lies in its ability to connect operators with a diverse range of clients, ensuring that vehicles are utilised throughout the day and reducing dead mileage. This collaborative approach is a win-win, as operators witness a surge in profitability while clients benefit from enhanced commute solutions.
The complete package: A technological revolution
Modern clients and riders demand more from their commuting experiences. Zeelo steps up to the challenge by offering a comprehensive suite of tools, including a Driver App, Rider Booking App, Vehicle Tracking, and 24/7 Customer Support. This integration of technology not only streamlines operations but also elevates the overall service quality. It's not just about transport; it's about creating an experience that resonates with the expectations of the 21st-century commuter.
Cultivating growth through meaningful partnerships
Zeelo understands the power of collaboration in fostering growth. By forging lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with coach operators, Zeelo becomes an extension of their capabilities. The synergy between operator strengths and Zeelo's technological prowess leads to an expansion of the number of coaches on the road. This collaborative growth strategy positions both parties as integral players in the future of mobility.
“Working together in partnership with Zeelo we have seen a substantial rise in private sector contracts that have contributed very positively to our successful expansion” says Doncaster-based operator Wilfreda Beehive.
Strength in unity: providing superior transport services
The collaboration between operators and Zeelo results in the delivery of superior transport services. By combining the excellence of drivers and vehicles with cutting-edge technology for routing and ticketing, a harmonious blend is achieved. This not only meets but exceeds the evolving expectations of modern commuters, creating a transport service that is efficient, reliable, and technologically advanced.
Embracing new opportunities and expanding services
Zeelo opens doors to new opportunities for coach operators, particularly in the realm of group transport. The joint offering facilitates the growth of the number of multiple occupancy vehicles on the road, reducing the number of single car journeys and catering to the rising demand for efficient and organised group commuting. This expansion is not just about increasing the fleet; it's about embracing the changing dynamics of transportation needs.
Leveraging data for targeted routes and enhanced services
The strategic use of data is a hallmark of Zeelo's approach. By leveraging data, Zeelo designs routes that precisely target a large addressable market. This data-driven strategy ensures efficiency, reduces commute times, and addresses the specific needs of the diverse clientele served by coach operators.
The integration of Zeelo into coach and bus operations marks a significant leap into the future of mobility. This is not just a technological upgrade; it's a holistic transformation that positions operators as leaders in the dynamic landscape of 21st-century transportation. By embracing digitization, fostering meaningful partnerships, and leveraging advanced technology, the road ahead becomes not just a route but a journey towards unparalleled success and innovation.
Blackpool Transport goes digital with Freeway Fleet Systems
Blackpool Transport has switched to a new paperless system for engineers' checks from Freeway Fleet Systems.
The operator, which has a fleet of 103 buses and 18 trams, will equip engineers with tablets to replace hand-written job cards and inspection sheets.
Using the software, management will be able to see the status of the fleet via a connected device.
“We generate a lot of paper and, being hand-written, records are time-consuming and difficult to analyse,” says James Clough, Commercial and Finance Director, Blackpool Transport. “We knew we needed to improve the quality of our records and, with digitisation, it is estimated Freeway will eventually replace 11,000 pieces of paper and 62 hours each month of laborious data entry. More importantly, everything will be live and visible, which will allow us to manage things much better.”
Blackpool Transport is also moving to digital for its daily walk-round checks using the Freeway system via Ticketer machines.
Freeway will also be used to improve the automation of stores, purchasing and stock checks.
“We’ve long had problems with parts not being available when we need them," says Mr Clough. "This has meant that vehicles have been off road longer than necessary. Freeway will revolutionise the management of stores and purchasing and, through better information and processes, we expect to reduce vehicle downtime and improve the management of warranty claims.”
The system will also give management more insight into operating costs of individual vehicles.
Plans to join the DVSA's Earned Recognition scheme were a key factor in the decision to move to digital, says Blackpool Transport.