Twin Transit has awarded Complete Coach Works (CCW) a contract to convert two, 2004 35-foot Gillig buses into Zero Emission Propulsion System (ZEPS) buses.
“Twin Transit has worked toward integrating green technologies for a long time. To see that dream becoming reality is truly fantastic,” said Andrea Culletto, Twin Transit’s community relations director.
CCW takes previously used, internal combustion engine buses and remanufactures them into like-new vehicles containing ZEPS all-electric drivetrain systems. ZEPS is an integrated technology tested for more than four million miles of revenue service, says CCW.
Each ZEPS vehicle will feature a 180KW electric PMS motor and controller. The motor and controller are designed to handle heavy duty drive cycles and provide high torque and top speeds. The ZEPS buses will also include a 403kWh battery pack and battery management system. In addition, a new electrically driven air compressor, electrically driven power steering pump and new lightweight roof-mounted HVAC system will be added.
The ZEPS battery-electric buses will replace current buses in Twin Transit’s fleet to help further improve the region's air quality environment. In addition to providing public health and environmental benefits, ZEPS delivers financial benefits, including reduced maintenance costs and reduced fuel costs, says CCW.
“In 2018, Twin Transit offered its riders free trips between the Twin Cities in an effort to engage the public and gather feedback on electric buses. Complete Coach Works provided Twin Transit with a ZEPS bus for the demonstration,” said Jim Paul, Northwest Regional CCW sales manager. “The ZEPS bus was well received by Twin Transit and its riders. We are thrilled Twin Transit has given us the opportunity to provide its riders with familiar safe and reliable transportation.
“Complete Coach Works is wonderful to work with. They are great partners, integral to helping us realize the vision of a more sustainable future,” Culletto said.
