Bus Manufacturer News & Discussion

[chiltern trev]

Honestly londons new “tram-buses” coming next year just looks like an Optare Versa with oversized front wheel covers.

'London buses have entered a new era, starting with these impressive trambuses'

MyLondon's transport editor Callum Marius got a first look onboard

www.mylondon.news

The article states

They can comfortably handle 81 passengers, almost as many as a double decker.

I think not - as nowhere near 81 seats.

 

[bunty0657]

I think not - as nowhere near 81 seats.

There is no claim of 81 seats. These Irizars will carry 81 passengers including those that are standing. That they seem only to have 90kW/h of battery capacity thanks to the use of high power opportunity charging, and hence battery mass being much lower than a comparable Yutong or BYD ADL, is no doubt a major factor.

 

[GusB]

There is a separate discussion about the Irizar ie buses here:

"Tram buses"

I'm getting a lot of feeds on my smartphone effectively advertising "futuristic" new "tram buses" about to be introduced in London. As they are four-wheel rigid single deckers, I can't see any tram features at all except the very superficial ones of wheel covers and a curved front end. Can...

www.railforums.co.uk

 

[Volvodart]

City Sightseeing Glasgow to get ten Wrightbus electrics

City Sightseeing Glasgow to get ten Wrightbus electrics - Bus & Coach Buyer

City Sightseeing Glasgow is to launch ten open-top Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliners into service. The vehicles are a £4,500,000 investment and includes funding from the Scottish Zero Emission Bus (ScotZEB) Challenge Fund. The launch of ten new electric buses will make Glasgow the first ever...

www.busandcoachbuyer.com

City Sightseeing Glasgow is to launch ten open-top Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliners into service.

The vehicles are a £4,500,000 investment and includes funding from the Scottish Zero Emission Bus (ScotZEB) Challenge Fund.

Sharon Morrison, Communications Director at City Sightseeing Glasgow; Tom Greenshields, Head of Business Development at Wrightbus and Susan Deighan, Glasgow Life Chief Executive

The launch of ten new electric buses will make Glasgow the first ever City Sightseeing operator to operate a full fleet of electric vehicles. It is also the first ever Scottish open-top tour to commit to full electric and one of the first in Europe. The electric vehicles are expected to be introduced to the tour in July 2023.

Operated by West Coast Motors, the open top tour serves the city’s key attractions and is part of the City Sightseeing Worldwide franchise.

“As well as the environmental benefits of operating an electric fleet, the buses will offer an improved customer experience” – Sharon Morrison, Communications Director at City Sightseeing Glasgow

Sharon Morrison, Communications Director at City Sightseeing Glasgow, said: “We are excited to be introducing a full-electric fleet to our open-top tour in Glasgow. It’s great for the city’s green credentials and reinforces our commitment to meeting Scotland’s climate change goals.

“While we already offer one of the most sustainable ways for visitors to enjoy the best of Glasgow, the move to full electric means we can showcase our city’s wealth of cultural heritage, and of course its dear green spaces, with zero environmental impact on our city, its residents and visitors.

“As well as the environmental benefits of operating an electric fleet, the buses will offer an improved customer experience, with a much smoother and quieter journey for those enjoying Glasgow’s story.”

“This ten-bus order will be one of the first City Sightseeing fleet in the world to be fully electric, which demonstrates Glasgow’s commitment to helping to reduce emissions” – Tom Greenshields, Head of Business Development at Wrightbus

Tom Greenshields, Head of Business Development at Wrightbus, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be supporting the city of Glasgow’s sustainability mission with our StreetDeck Electroliner Open Top buses. This ten-bus order will be one of the first City Sightseeing fleet in the world to be fully electric, which demonstrates Glasgow’s commitment to helping to reduce emissions.

“We feel proud to be working alongside City Sightseeing Glasgow and West Coast Motors, who operate the city’s Sightseeing buses, as their objectives very clearly align with ours to help play a part in the UK’s decarbonisation ambitions.”

“Sustainability is a goal that the entire tourism industry shares” – Enrique Ybarra, Founder of City Sightseeing Worldwide

Enrique Ybarra, Founder of City Sightseeing Worldwide, added: “Sustainability is a goal that the entire tourism industry shares and City Sightseeing Worldwide is delighted City Sightseeing Glasgow, through this pioneering development, has become one of the benchmarks for the entire sightseeing tour sector. We will continue to work with the same awareness to extend this example to the rest of our global network.”

 

[PG]

I agree the enviro 100 could prove to be very popular

I've tracked down a picture of this on its own - the long wheelbase and full height mid wheelbase emergency door remind me of a Wright Streetlite. Hopefully they won't share any on the road characteristics!

Image of Alexander Dennis Enviro 100

 

[anthony263]

I've attached a pdf copy of the enviro 100ev information sheet produced by Alexander Dennis and is available off their website

 

[Goldfish62]

I've attached a pdf copy of the enviro 100ev information sheet produced by Alexander Dennis and is available off their website

Thanks for posting.

Not convinced about the looks - very boxy and the small wheels don't help.

However, the technical spec looks impressive. Very good range indeed with the larger battery, narrower body than an E200 and capacity equivalent to a diesel bus of the same size.

ADL could be on to a winner here. It fills the gap between the current smallest EV buses and van conversions. Let's hope it doesn't rattle and creak too much!

 

[Blindtraveler]

Fat chance. If a DL have had anything to do with it then the above are dead certain

 

[LUYMun]

I've attached a pdf copy of the enviro 100ev information sheet produced by Alexander Dennis and is available off their website

The side windows are very large, especially looking from the rear nearside angle - perhaps larger than the Leyland Titan (B15)?

 

[Dent]

There is no claim of 81 seats. These Irizars will carry 81 passengers including those that are standing. That they seem only to have 90kW/h of battery capacity thanks to the use of high power opportunity charging, and hence battery mass being much lower than a comparable Yutong or BYD ADL, is no doubt a major factor.

The claim was that it could comfortably carry 81 passengers. 81 people crammed into a single decker with most of them having to stand hardly sounds comfortable.

 

[Trnsprt4Sctlnd]

Thanks for posting.

Not convinced about the looks - very boxy and the small wheels don't help.

However, the technical spec looks impressive. Very good range indeed with the larger battery, narrower body than an E200 and capacity equivalent to a diesel bus of the same size.

ADL could be on to a winner here. It fills the gap between the current smallest EV buses and van conversions. Let's hope it doesn't rattle and creak too much!

I like the frontal design but the rear end is all out Plaxton Primo, not a good look.

It look ungainly on its extra small wheels but the next-gen Enviro 400EV look miles better from every angle.

 

[Goldfish62]

The side windows are very large, especially looking from the rear nearside angle - perhaps larger than the Leyland Titan (B15)?

Looking closely at the render I'd say the windows are standard E200 depth. It's just that the glass extends considerably above and below in Citaro 2nd Generation fashion.

 

[anthony263]

Thanks for posting.

Not convinced about the looks - very boxy and the small wheels don't help.

However, the technical spec looks impressive. Very good range indeed with the larger battery, narrower body than an E200 and capacity equivalent to a diesel bus of the same size.

ADL could be on to a winner here. It fills the gap between the current smallest EV buses and van conversions. Let's hope it doesn't rattle and creak too much!

I can see them being popular especially with local authorities

 

[Goldfish62]

I can see them being popular especially with local authorities

And London operators who want to avoid having to buy the MetroCity.

 

[XAM2175]

Not convinced about the looks - very boxy and the small wheels don't help.

It look ungainly on its extra small wheels ...

British buses of recent times have definitely suffered in this department but the E100EV has to take the cake; those are basically piano castors.

 

[GusB]

Everyone is entitled to their opinion about the appearance of new vehicles, but I think we should wait until we can see it in the flesh before passing judgement.

 

[GusB]

Van Hool will be updating their T range of coaches. It looks a bit more conservative in terms of styling over the TX, but I quite like the new look.

Van Hool introduces new Van Hool T coach range

Van Hool has presented the successor to the T8, T9 and TX generations of coach with the unveiling of the new Van Hool T range of coaches.

www.route-one.net

Van Hool has presented the successor to the T8, T9 and TX generations of coach with the unveiling of the new Van Hool T range.

A preview of preproduction models of the Van Hool T single-deck coaches took place in the manufacturer’s facility in Koningshooikt on 21 November, after being revealed to customers on 17 November. The new series will replace the existing TX series within the portfolio of Van Hool luxury coaches alongside the EX and TDX series, and “set the tone” for the brand over the next decade.

Models in 2023 will initially be marketed as the two-axle T Alicron in 12-13m, the T Acron in two-axle or three-axle variants in 10-14m, and the three-axle T Astron in 13-14m. All are set to be introduced in right-hand drive in 2024. On display were the T 15 Acron in 12.5m, The T 17 Acron in 14m, fitted with wheelchair lift; and the T 17 Astron in 14m.

Power comes from Euro VI PACCAR-DAF engines in 11 and 13 litres with a power range of 270kW/367hp to 390kW/530hp. A choice of manual automatic and automatic gearboxes from ZF TraXon, ZF EcoLife and Allison are available.

 

[Trnsprt4Sctlnd]

Van Hool will be updating their T range of coaches. It looks a bit more conservative in terms of styling over the TX, but I quite like the new look.

Van Hool introduces new Van Hool T coach range

Van Hool has presented the successor to the T8, T9 and TX generations of coach with the unveiling of the new Van Hool T range of coaches.

www.route-one.net

They make a better coach than Volvo, at least for their TDX versus the Plaxton Panorama.

 

[PG]

Van Hool will be updating their T range of coaches. It looks a bit more conservative in terms of styling over the TX, but I quite like the new look.

Van Hool introduces new Van Hool T coach range

Van Hool has presented the successor to the T8, T9 and TX generations of coach with the unveiling of the new Van Hool T range of coaches.

www.route-one.net

Power comes from Euro VI PACCAR-DAF engines in 11 and 13 litres with a power range of 270kW/367hp to 390kW/530hp. A choice of manual automatic and automatic gearboxes from ZF TraXon, ZF EcoLife and Allison are available.

Is that manual as in hefty hear stick and foot pedal clutch? Can't be many buyers wanting that these days...

 

[GusB]

Is that manual as in hefty hear stick and foot pedal clutch? Can't be many buyers wanting that these days...

I think it's supposed to read "automated manual" and automatic, which would make more sense.

Edit: I've always thought that the term "automated manual" is a bit silly because, by virtue of the fact that it's automated, it is no longer manual. We could probably argue about this all day and wouldn't achieve anything!

 

[computerSaysNo]

I've always thought that the term "automated manual" is a bit silly because, by virtue of the fact that it's automated, it is no longer manual. We could probably argue about this all day and wouldn't achieve anything!

It makes sense to me in that the gearbox itself is a manual box, and it is only the control mechanism which is automated.

 

[Jordan Adam]

They make a better coach than Volvo, at least for their TDX versus the Plaxton Panorama.

The Vanhool and Plaxton products are not really in the same league or price range though, it's a bit like comparing Lidl to M&S... you get what you pay for.

 

[Trnsprt4Sctlnd]

The Vanhool and Plaxton products are not really in the same league or price range though, it's a bit like comparing Lidl to M&S... you get what you pay for.

I regress from what I initially said, I like Volvo Chassis underneath most bodywork, the likes of the B8RLE or B5s etc, but when comparing specifically the Plaxton Panorama and it’s B11RLE low-floor chassis and then comparing it to the VanHool TDX Astromega that’s where it is night and day, the Astromega does have a smooth refinement and comfort to its ride that the Volvo B11RLE simply can’t match, mostly because Volvo have used smaller tires on the chassis specifically for the Panorama not to mention it’s using front suspension specifically built for use in low-floor buses, not to mention Plaxton doesn’t seem to have fitted quite as much sound proofing between the chassis and interior of the Panorama.

Having driven the likes of a Plaxton Panther, Elite and Interdeck on top of the older B13R chassis and the B11R those are better than the Panorama in terms of comfort and refinement.

Additionally what isn’t great about the Panorama is the lack of 13ltr engine option which VanHool does provide for operators especially in Europe where they may prefer extra power specifically with a fully auto gearbox, choosing the ZF Ecolife on a Volvo coach limits the customer choices to the 380hp D11K only.

 

[Volvodart]

Arriva Midlands and Metroline order Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner

https://www.route-one.net/news/arriva-midlands-metroline-order-streetdeck-electroliner/

Arriva Midlands, Metroline order StreetDeck Electroliner
By routeone Team -November 29, 2022
Arriva Midlands and Metroline have placed separate orders with Wrightbus for a total of 61 StreetDeck Electroliner battery-electric buses. 22 will go to Arriva for use in Leicester as the group’s first zero-emission double-deckers outside the capital. Metroline will take 39 for use on Transport for London services 142 and 297.

The Metroline buses will follow a batch of StreetDeck Hydroliner hydrogen fuel cell-electric buses previously delivered to the operator. Group Engineering Director Ian Foster says the Electroliner was chosen after testing demonstrated “excellent” energy consumption, something that he is confident will further improve in the future.

“As with the hydrogen bus order, it is essential that wherever possible, we purchase vehicles with a high local build content, supporting the UK supply chain backing our own technical expertise in the zero-emission arena,” Mr Foster adds. The buses for Metroline represent the second London deal for the StreetDeck Electroliner, following an earlier order for the model from Abellio.

Those for Arriva Midlands form part of the successful Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas bid by Leicester City Council. They will enter service from October 2023. A StreetDeck Electroliner demonstrator was earlier trialled by the operator and the 22 due will be preceded by 36 new diesel buses due over the coming months.

Arriva Commercial Director Andrew Godley says the operator is “delighted” to have placed the order. It forms part of a widespread introduction of battery-electric buses in Leicester through the successful ZEBRA bid and other improvements to services involving the Leicester Buses Partnership, of which Arriva is a member.

Adds Deputy Mayor Cllr Adam Clarke: “This investment is another great step forward with the Partnership. By the end of next year, half of Leicester’s bus travel will be on quiet, electric, high-quality vehicles.”

Wrightbus has underlined that the StreetDeck Electroliner is “the world’s most efficient double-decker battery-electric bus.” According to testing for Zero Emission Bus certification by Zemo Partnership, the model with 340kW/h of battery capacity consumes 0.68kW/h per km; with 454kW/h of energy storage, it consumes 0.75kW/h per km.

 

[ClydeCoaster]

Metroline also going for 48 Volvo BZL/MCV single decks.

Metroline orders 48 Volvo BZL electric single-deckers - routeone

Metroline has ordered 48 single-deck Volvo BZL battery-electric single-deckers at lengths of 9.7m, 10.35m and 10.8m.

www.route-one.net

Metroline has become the first London operator to place an order for the Volvo BZL battery-electric bus. It will put 48 single-deck examples into service in the second half of 2023 at lengths of 9.7m, 10.35m and 10.8m.

All will be overnight charged with no equipment for opportunity replenishment. MCV will body the buses. Volvo has confirmed that while the Metroline order is a first for an operator based in the capital, it already has others in hand for the platform from provincial fleets in both double- and single-deck format.

Announcement of the BZL order by Metroline follows rapidly after the business signed for 39 Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner battery-electric double-deckers. Parent company ComfortDelGro (UK) Group Engineering Director Ian Foster says that Metroline is “pleased” to place the BZL order with Volvo.

“We have a longstanding relationship involving all areas of our transport operations around the world, and this reflects the trust we have in Volvo delivering a reliable product with exceptional aftermarket support and service.”

Adds Volvo Buses UK and Ireland Managing Director Domenico Bondi: “We are thrilled to receive this latest order from Metroline. The BZL is very well suited for its operation in London and will help to deliver clean, silent and efficient public transport. In addition, it builds upon our strong business partnership with Metroline and our journey together towards net zero transportation.”

When the BZL was launched in late 2021, the first double-decker demonstrator was completed in Transport for London red with Metroline fleetnames in reflection of the long relationship between the operator and vehicle supplier.

 

[Goldfish62]

Metroline also going for 48 Volvo BZL/MCV single decks.

Metroline orders 48 Volvo BZL electric single-deckers - routeone

Metroline has ordered 48 single-deck Volvo BZL battery-electric single-deckers at lengths of 9.7m, 10.35m and 10.8m.

www.route-one.net

Perhaps they'll be more successful in breaking the ADL virtual monopoly on London single decks than both Wright's and VDL have been in the past.

 

[Snow1964]

Metroline also going for 48 Volvo BZL/MCV single decks.

Metroline orders 48 Volvo BZL electric single-deckers - routeone

Metroline has ordered 48 single-deck Volvo BZL battery-electric single-deckers at lengths of 9.7m, 10.35m and 10.8m.

www.route-one.net

Here is the original Press Release by Volvo

Metroline confirm major zero-emission vehicle order with Volvo Buses – 48 electric buses will operate in London

Transport for London bus operator Metroline, part of global transport operator ComfortDelGro, has confirmed a major order for 48 Volvo BZL Electric zero emission single deck buses which will enter service in London during the second half of next year. The order is one of the largest so far for...

www.volvobuses.com

24 are 10.3m for routes 187, 487
14 are 10.8m for route 251
9 are 9.6m for route 384
1 other (not sure of length)

For double decks Metroline have ordered 39 Wrightbus Electroliners for routes 142 and 297

The order, totalling 39 double-deck StreetDeck Electroliner BEVs, will help Metroline increase the number of its zero-emissions fleet and in turn, benefit local communities and the environment.

The buses will be operating on Routes 297 and 142, which drive through the boroughs of Brent and Ealing, and Hertfordshire (Watford), Harrow and Barnet.

Metroline places order with Wrightbus for zero-emissions buses

Metroline places order with Wrightbus for zero-emissions buses

wrightbus.com

 

[PG]

Here is the original Press Release by Volvo

Metroline confirm major zero-emission vehicle order with Volvo Buses – 48 electric buses will operate in London

Transport for London bus operator Metroline, part of global transport operator ComfortDelGro, has confirmed a major order for 48 Volvo BZL Electric zero emission single deck buses which will enter service in London during the second half of next year. The order is one of the largest so far for...

www.volvobuses.com

24 are 10.3m for routes 187, 487
14 are 10.8m for route 251
9 are 9.6m for route 384
1 other (not sure of length)

For double decks Metroline have ordered 39 Wrightbus Electroliners for routes 142 and 297

Metroline places order with Wrightbus for zero-emissions buses

Metroline places order with Wrightbus for zero-emissions buses

wrightbus.com

Sounds like this Ian Foster fella sings from whatever hymn sheet is put in front of him - on the one hand he's delighted to be ordering buses from Wrights and supporting the UK supply chain, while on the other he's heaping praise on vehicles from a Swedish manufacturer... perhaps he should enter politics

 

[Mikey C]

Metroline have a large fleet of ancient (by London standards) E200s, so I'm not surprised they're the first London operator to order the new Volvo electric single decker, which can then displace some newer E200s and E200MMCs to replace the geriatric ones

 

[Goldfish62]

Sounds like this Ian Foster fella sings from whatever hymn sheet is put in front of him - on the one hand he's delighted to be ordering buses from Wrights and supporting the UK supply chain, while on the other he's heaping praise on vehicles from a Swedish manufacturer... perhaps he should enter politics

The press release says nothing different from any other operator placing an order for new buses.

Metroline have a long standing relationship with both Wrightbus and Volvo. They obviously like both products, hence are dual sourcing.

Volvo/MCV have a substantial supply chain via their after sales network in the UK.

== Doublepost prevention - post automatically merged: 1 Dec 2022 ==

Metroline have a large fleet of ancient (by London standards) E200s, so I'm not surprised they're the first London operator to order the new Volvo electric single decker, which can then displace some newer E200s and E200MMCs to replace the geriatric ones

Yes, their E200s are probably the worst in London, not helped by that tired interior decor that they persist in using.