Alexander Dennis Limited's (ADL) 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 ADL 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 on-board generator, the Enviro400ER delivers zero emissions without any dependency on additional external charging infrastructure. Alternatively, it can be 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, saving 31 percent 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.
“The Enviro400ER’s certification as Ultra Low Emission Bus confirms our position as the UK’s leading supplier of green buses," said Ken Scott, group engineering director at ADL. "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 when Go-Ahead Group’s Brighton & Hove introduced 30 of the double deck buses 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 Enviro400ER, the first 100 of which will be delivered later this year.
