Equipmake has delivered 12 repowered Optare Versa single-deck electric buses to First York following a successful trial of an initial converted prototype vehicle.
The buses feature Equipmake’s Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, which in this specification, includes a 274kWh capacity battery, giving a range of 150 miles in all UK weather conditions.
Equipmake repowers are tailored to specific requirements provided by the operator, with service routes simulated to ensure the optimum battery power level is selected to secure driving ranges of 150 to 250 miles.
Its ZED, which is modular and scalable and can be applied to single as well as double-decker buses, features the firm’s in-house developed electric motor, inverter, and power electronics, combined with the latest in lithium-ion batteries.
The trial of the prototype allowed engineering teams at First York and Equipmake to evaluate its performance and make any final adjustments.
Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake, said: “This is fantastic news for passengers and the people of York, making a significant contribution to local air quality.
“For operators, repowering existing buses offers an excellent opportunity to achieve zero emission targets, while making significant cost savings in parallel.”
Stuart Eyre, Engineering Manager of First York, said: “Following a successful initial trial, it’s great to see this new fleet of 12 upgraded, all-electric buses operational across York.
“Equipmake’s repower technology is an important step in our transition to achieving a fully electric fleet in York, continuing to help improve air quality in the city and supporting the goal of First Bus nationally to have a zero emission fleet by 2035.”
