Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) has announced that its zero-emission capable Enviro400ER double-decker has been fully certified as an Ultra Low Emission Bus by the UK’s Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership.
The Enviro400ER is an electric range hybrid capable of running in zero-emission mode for up to three miles. Developed in partnership with BAE Systems, it uses an electric driveline for smooth acceleration and braking. Powered by a 32kWh battery and charged by an onboard generator, the vehicle delivers zero emissions without any dependency on additional external charging infrastructure, as well as being capable of being charged externally through an industry-standard plug-in connection.
The Enviro400ER has now been fully accredited as an Ultra Low Emission Bus by the UK’s Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, with a claimed saving of 31% well-to-wheel greenhouse gas emissions over the UK Bus Cycle compared to a Euro VI diesel bus of equivalent passenger capacity. The test also confirmed a significant theoretical zero emission operating range for the Enviro400ER, although subject to operational factors this will be limited to up to three miles at a time to ensure the vehicle can self-charge for repeated zero-emission operation without causing spikes in NOX emissions.
Ken Scott, Group Engineering Director at ADL, said: “The Enviro400ER’s certification as an Ultra Low Emission Bus confirms our position as the UK’s leading supplier of green buses. Capable of zero-emission operation, the Enviro400ER delivers immediate carbon savings and air quality benefits that can be further enhanced by the stepwise introduction of charging infrastructure.”
Ian Wilson, Business Development Director of Power and Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems added: “We are delighted to continue our long and successful relationship with ADL. Hybrid electric drive remains a key technology on the UK’s journey to achieve net zero emissions, and our ultra-low emission Series-ER drivetrain represents the very latest technology development in this area.”
ADL launched the Enviro400ER in 2019, with 30 of the type going into service with Brighton & Hove to cut out emissions in Brighton’s Ultra Low Emission Zone. The plug-in version has been chosen by the Republic of Ireland’s National Transport Authority in a framework deal for up to 600 Enviro400ERs, the first 100 of which is expected to be delivered later this year.
