UK-based engineering and electrification specialist Equipmake says it is pleased to be able to announce that, building on its 29 September agreement, its contract with Big Bus Tours to repower open-top sightseeing buses has been doubled to encompass a fleet of 20 buses, making it worth a total of £3.5 million.
Equipmake won an initial contract to repower a fleet of 10 Ankai buses using its integrated zero-emission drivetrain system. The 20 repowered buses are expected to be delivered by the middle of the year, with 13 buses delivered by May, and two buses delivered per month thereafter. The buses will have a range of 120 miles and a minimum battery life of eight years.
Equipmake CEO Ian Foley said: “Our industry leading integrated zero-emission drivetrain system continues to impress new and existing customers, as evidenced with the extension of this contract with Big Bus Tours. This contract extension will increase their repowered fleet by 100% and demonstrates both the quality and efficacy of our products, and also the level of investment being made by businesses across the transport spectrum as they move towards a net zero future. We look forward to delivering the 20 repowered buses to Big Bus over the coming year, and providing further updates to the market as we roll out our products and IP across multiple sectors internationally.”
Executive Vice President for Group Operations at Big Bus Tours Gerry Price added: “As part of our drive for global net zero, Equipmake’s performance to date with the development of the first 10 buses ordered made the decision to increase the number an easy one and will further progress our class leading zero emissions status in the London tourism market.”