The manufacturer says that the newly launched AD Repower scheme, which sees diesel buses converted to electric, will eliminate tailpipe emissions whilst extending the lifespan of existing fleets
Alexander Dennis has announced its new AD Repower product, which sees existing diesel buses undergoing a conversion to electric in partnership with KleanDrive. It is set to debut in the UK on the MMC-generation Enviro400 double-decker, with a pilot vehicle expected to hit the road in the first half of 2026. If uptake is strong, the company says the progamme could be expanded to other models and international markets.
The process involves replacing the diesel engine and gearbox with KleanDrive’s ‘plug and play’ modular electric drivetrain and control software, including a skid-mounted Voith Electrical Drive System (VEDS) motor and integrated power electronics, which is the same technology as used in Alexander Dennis’s latest generation of electric buses. The manufacturer says this ensures compatibility and reliability for operators.
Power comes from a bank of 352kWh CATL lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, delivering an expected range of up to 195 miles per charge at 50% passenger occupancy. Crucially, says Alexander Dennis, the repowering process preserves the bus’ interior layout and seating capacity, allowing the conversion to take place without compromising passenger space. Alexander Dennis Group Engineering Director Chris Gall said: “We look forward to delivering the benefits of AD Repower in partnership with KleanDrive. Their drivetrain engineering is in keeping with our reputation for quality and we have been impressed with how well thought out the design is for easy installation and maintenance.
“We believe that offering new electric buses as well as repowering vehicles already on the road is the quickest route to decarbonisation of our customer’s fleets, whilst delivering cleaner, quieter and smoother journeys for passengers. “The diesel-powered Enviro400 has for many years been Britain’s most popular double-deck bus, and we are delighted to offer this repowering solution to extend the life of these vehicles. AD Repower in partnership with KleanDrive is fully backed by Alexander Dennis and supported through our AD24 service, giving our customers peace of mind.”
KleanDrive CEO Joe Tighe said: “This is a great solution for operators and the environment. Alexander Dennis buses are renowned for the quality of the body and chassis and by repowering them with an EV drivetrain, we can maximise the lifespan of vehicle, whilst eliminating noxious emissions and slashing running costs and CO˜ emissions. By repowering rather than prematurely replacing, we avoid throwing away a perfectly good vehicle and the carbon dioxide that is embedded within that.
“Our solution is a plug and play, modular drivetrain that replaces the existing engine and transmission and interfaces perfectly with the bus controls and instrumentation. It is designed to carry out the conversion at the fleet operator’s premises, which reduces time off the road and empowers the local technicians to carry out maintenance.”
