greenbusandcoach - November 2021

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November 2021

Issue 432

busandcoach driving towards a greener future

EV bus travel for COP26 leaders

News and analysis of the transition to a zero emission bus and coach sector

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Editorial

Analysis: Hydrogen needs lifecycle assessment

is published by Plum Publishing Ltd

Steve Rooney steve.rooney@busandcoach.com

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6 Go-Ahead places first hydrogen bus order

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7 COP26 delegates get electric bus transfer

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g reen g

November 2021

Issue 432

busandcoach driving towards a greener future

EV bus travel for COP26 leaders

News and analysis of the transition to a zero emission bus and coach sector

November 2021

14 Fuel cell coach from Hyzon Motors launched in Australia greenbusandcoach 3

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andcoach

Bringing life-cycle emissions into H2 assessment

A new well-to-wheel analysis uncovers challenges for hydrogen-fuelled vehicles and recommends that lifecycle emissions need to be considered alongside tailpipe emissions.

W

ith a significant head of steam building behind the promotion of hydrogen for transport applications, a timely report by the Zemo Partnership demonstrates that the climate gains may not be as easily achieved as some of the hydrogen proponents claim. There is already a healthy debate about the merits of ‘green’ and ‘blue’ hydrogen focusing on the production of the fuel itself, but extensive modelling by Zemo looks in more detail at the modelling of applications for the GHG mitigation potential of hydrogen, compared to battery electric transport solutions.

The new study by Zemo looks at the comparative performance of hydrogen as a fuel and recommends that UK government policy should increase its focus on well-to-wheel (WTW) greenhouse gas emissions and overall energy efficiency performance of new fuels for transport. While much of the report looks at HGV application, it is very relevant to buses, and especially coaches.

The study argues that while hydrogen, electric and renewable fuels (produced from waste-based feedstocks) can all radically cut emissions compared with their diesel-powered counterparts, there are major variations in their effectiveness and efficiency in terms of cutting emissions depending on choices made over the full well-to-wheel life cycle.

Zemo warns that a focus solely on mitigating tailpipe emissions can risk neglecting the full impacts and the overall energy consumption of the system.

The new study looks specifically at hydrogen, extending analysis provided in its recently published

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Low Carbon Hydrogen Well-to-Tank Pathways Study.

The latest research follows the publication of the government’s UK hydrogen strategy, and demonstrates some of the challenges associated with hydrogen.

The analysis finds that hydrogen vehicles can

Nocvember 2021

analysis

Infographic,Zemo Partnership.

deliver lower carbon, and in some cases negative, well-to-wheel GHG emissions solutions within the next decade for many vehicle types, but to do this, it is essential to use low carbon hydrogen.

And, regardless of how low carbon hydrogen is supplied, the production process is energy intensive and thus significantly worsens the overall WTW energy efficiency.

The research found that the well-to-wheel energy efficiency of hydrogen vehicles is lower than diesel internal combustion (IC) or battery electric vehicles and those using renewable fuels in IC engines.

In the case of HGVs powered by hydrogen fuel cells – widely mooted as a potential hydrogen solution because of the technical challenges to battery electrification, the well-to-wheel energy efficiency is four to six times worse than that for comparable battery electric vehicles.

Zemo Partnership chief executive Andy Eastlake says: “When we look at the energy efficiency of potential pathways for hydrogen to be used in transport we see challenges. These vehicles will need to demonstrate considerable complementary benefits such as longer range, superior payload or lower operating costs to compensate for November 2021

the increase in energy consumption compared with other zero emission powertrain solutions such as battery electric vehicles.”

Gloria Esposito, Zemo head of sustainability and study co-author, adds: “So called ‘green’ hydrogen (produced through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity) currently delivers the lowest WTW GHG emissions for a hydrogen vehicle. However, vehicles using ‘grey’ hydrogen made from current steam methane reformation perform worse than conventional fossil-fuelled diesel vehicles on a well-to-wheel GHG basis.”

In carrying out the research, more than 250 wellto-wheel scenarios were modelled within a 2020-2035 timeframe to assess the impact on GHG emissions and energy consumption.

The study recommends that further feasibility work needs to be carried out to assess the potential role of hydrogen in the HGV sector, including looking at vehicle payload and capacity, range, refuelling/ charging time and infrastructure. www.zemo.org.uk/assets/reports/Zemo_Hydrogen_ Ve hicl e _We l l-to -W h e e l _ GHG _ an d _ En e rg y_ Study_2021.pdf

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hydrogen

Go-Ahead places its first order for zero emission hydrogen buses

BRIGHTON & Hove and Metrobus have ordered 20 Wrightbus hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for Fastway routes in the Crawley, Redhill and Gatwick Airport area. The single-deck GB Kite Hydroliner buses will be delivered in June 2022 and will be the first hydrogen powered vehicles in Go-Ahead’s fleet.

The single-deck fuel cell buses are part-funded with money from UK government and European Union zero-emission bus schemes.

Brighton & Hove and Metrobus are pursuing a bid for a second tranche of a further 34 buses

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to operate on other services in the Fastway bus rapid transit network.

David Brown, chief executive, Go-Ahead Group, says: “This is a significant milestone for GoAhead as we work towards our goal of a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.

“These buses will be clean, green and will provide a comfortable journey for passengers.

“New technology is only one piece of the puzzle though in addressing climate change – we also need to encourage a largescale change in behaviour by persuading people to switch from cars to walking, cycling and public

transport.”

Jo Bamford, executive chairman, Wrightbus, adds: “To date, our world-leading double decker Hydroliners have prevented one million kg of CO2 from entering the atmosphere. The introduction of the new GB Kite Hydroliner single decker will help to prevent even more carbon from being released.

“It’s fantastic to see Brighton & Hove and Metrobus taking this vital and progressive step to decarbonise public transport to help the UK hit its ambitious net zero targets.” www.go-ahead.com

November 2021

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COP26

ADL and Stagecoach electric buses transport COP26 leaders

WOR LD leaders attending COP26 in Glasgow, including UK prime minister Boris Johnson and UN secretary-general António Guterres, travelled to the venue in a fleet of BYD ADL Enviro400EV electric doubledeck buses.

ADL and Stagecoach provided ten electric buses and drivers for the VIP transport, which took dignitaries from the core COP26 campus in the conference’s Blue Zone to an evening reception at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery, hosted by the Prince of Wales.

The buses were built by the BYD/ADL partnership which has more than 1,000 zero-emission buses delivered or on order to date. The new buses, which arrived at COP26 from ADL’s production line in Falkirk, are for

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Stagecoach’s operations on behalf of Transport for London.

Paul Davies, ADL president & managing director, says: “We’re delighted that world leaders have had the opportunity to ride on our world-leading double-deck buses.

COP26 is focused on finding solutions to the climate emergency and we are proud to have been able to demonstrate a zero emission solution that is available right now.

“Clean electric buses such as the ones world leaders travelled on last night are key to reducing transport emissions around the globe and encouraging modal shift to sustainable transport modes. Zero emission buses are available today and ready to be rolled out at scale.

“We are particularly delighted that Prime Minister Boris Johnson, as an avowed supporter of British-built zero emission buses,

was able to show world colleagues the level of innovation and expertise offered by Britain’s world-class bus manufacturing industry.”

Martin Griffiths, chief executive, Stagecoach, adds: “We are very proud to have worked with Alexander Dennis to provide electric bus services for the world’s leaders at COP26. We are continuing to invest hundreds of millions of pounds in new clean electric and other zero emissions buses, like the ones that we had the opportunity to showcase at COP26, but one of the biggest positive changes people can make individually in addressing the climate emergency is by switching from cars to more sustainable public transport, cycling and walking.” www.alexander-dennis.com

November 2021

ev coaches

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CPT to discuss decarbonising coaches

CPT is hosting an online conference ‘Zero Emission Coaches: Turning Theory into Reality’ on 1 December to help coach operators transition to a zero emission coach f leet. Transport minister Trudy Harrison will outline the government’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan and what it means for the coach industry.

Delegates will also hear from National Express, Yutong and the Green Finance Institute.

CPT says the event is an opportunity for coach operators to learn from each other and have con-

versations that will help to inform CPT’s own discussions with Government on how the industry can transition to zero emission alternatives. The event is exclusively for CPT members and registration to attend will be needed in advance.

CPT head of policy Alison Edwards says: “I’m delighted to announce that this important event is taking place and that we will be hearing from a varied mix of speakers. With transport minister Trudy Harrison providing an update on Government’s plans with coach this is an opportunity

for delegates to find out more about the Government’s thoughts on the coach sector’s role in the journey to net zero.

“Throughout the event we will be facilitating discussions around how the coach industry can play a full role to reach net zero, and how we can address the barriers related to vehicles, financing, and infrastructure.”

The event is only open to CPT members.

See the programme here -https://www.cpt-uk.org/events/ zero-emission-coaches-turningtheory-into-reality/

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ev depot

Strategic partnership between First Bus and Hitachi Europe targets decarbonisation at Caledonia depot

FIRST Bus is working with Hitachi Europe as a strategic partner for the decarbonisation programme at its Caledonia bus depot in Glasgow. Hitachi will provide a service offering bus batteries for First Glasgow’s EV fleet, smart charging software to manage charging, and a decarbonisation programme that will explore low carbon energy opportunities, with a view to First Bus eventually being able to generate its own electricity.

Andrew Jarvis, portfolio managing director, First Bus, says: “This innovative and progressive partnership with Hitachi exemplifies that we aren’t just committed to meeting government guidelines about sustain-

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able energy, but that we’re eager to explore and create greener solutions for the future.”

Ram Ramachander, chief commercial officer and chief digital officer, Hitachi Europe, adds: “Our partnership with First Bus marks a significant step for Hitachi in our goal to deliver zero carbon solutions to the mobility sector. We are immensely proud to be a part of this important deployment and look forward to helping First Bus deliver full fleet decarbonisation by 2035 and working together on sustainable innovations.”

Hitachi will supply the bus batteries on a subscription basis for the fleet at the Caledonia depot, and guarantee a minimum state of health for each battery, ensur-

ing best possible performance and the optimum time to replace each battery.

It will also provide telematics on the buses and electric charging points to give live status information on each charging point and their processes, enabling remote charging and the ability to tell which vehicles are connected to which charger.

First Bus and Hitachi Europe will design low carbon technology such as solar panels and battery energy storage for the site to enable First Glasgow to generate its own electricity as well as delivering zero-carbon charging hubs for other business fleet users. firstbus.co.uk www.hitachieurope.com

November 2021

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zero emission

andcoach

Pelican launches Team Zero

PELICAN Engineering, which is the exclusive supplier of Yutong zero emission bus and coach models in the UK, launched a new industry group, ‘Team Zero’ at an event in Glasgow ahead of COP26. Attended by directors of both Yutong and Pelican Engineering, as well as representatives of eight leading operators, the event demonstrated the importance of cooperation between vehicle manufacturers and operators.

Head of Yutong Bus UK at Pelican, Ian Downie, says: “We have been working on developing a collaborative platform for our zero emission passenger vehicle customers for some time. The

network will bring together our customers across England, Wales and Scotland with the intention of supporting their move to clean passenger transport technology.

“As well as providing a forum for bus and coach operators to learn from one another, we also plan to provide ongoing updates and host a series of informative workshops to keep customers abreast of the latest developments and promote best practice throughout the industry.”

The group includes a number of operators and transport authorities from across the UK: Ember, First Bus, Go North East, Leicester City Council, McGill’s, Newport Bus, Roberts Travel Group, Scot-

tish Power, Stagecoach, Transport for Wales and Westway.

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ev buses

New electric bus from ENC to feature at APTA exhibition

ELDORADO National (California), a subsidiary of REV Group, is launching its full electric Axess bus at APTA Expo this month.

ENC claims that it will be the first zero emission, zero corrosion battery electric bus, and the first to offer 40’, 35’ and 32’ vehicle lengths.

The new Axess BEB is built on

the existing Axess platform which has been produced for more than 20 years.

The new electric version offers multiple configurations for passenger seating and wheelchair accommodations, and features three-point seat belts, and a large, angled windshield and low dash to provide greater visibility for driv-

ers.

ENC has produced low-floor and standard-f loor buses for more than 45 years to public transit, airport, and university transport markets. The buses are built at ENC’s 227,000 sq foot production facility in Riverside, California.

www.revgroup.com

Hydrogen bus fire in the Netherlands

A NEW hydrogen-powered bus delivered to Arriva in Doetinchem, the Netherlands is reported to have caught fire in a blaze that destroyed the depot.

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There were no personnel injured according to local press reports, and the cause of the fire is not yet clear.

The hydrogen bus was one of

ten Solaris Urbino 12s ordered by Arriva and the balance was scheduled to be delivered from December 2021.

November 2021

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ev artics

andcoach

Solaris to deliver 14 bi-articulated e-buses to Tide Bus in Denmark

SOLARIS has won an order for 14 bi-articulated Urbino 24 electric buses for Tide Bus’ operation in the Danish city of Aalborg.

Solaris says this is a unique order for Europe in view of the additional length and the design of the vehicles.

These 24-metre vehicles are specially designed for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes.

“We were very glad to hear that Denmark would be the first country ever to receive delivery of electric Urbino 24 MetroStyle buses,” says Petros Spinaris,

member of Solaris’ management board for sales, marketing and customer service.

“This is a bus generation with a high passenger capacity and unique design that perfectly suits the character of modern cities. I am convinced that our collaboration with Tide Bus Denmark will open up a new chapter in our activities and support sustainable urban transport.”

Tide Bus has opted for the MetroStyle version with a new distinctive front design. The 24m bus will have two traction motors with

a total capacity of 240kW and a battery pack with a total capacity of over 700kWh. Each of the 14 ebuses will be fitted with automatic driver assistance systems, including MirrorEye that replaces the rear- and side-view mirrors and ensures optimal visibility.

In addition, a Mobileye Shield+ system will be fitted to address the vehicle’s blind spot with cameras placed on both sides giving the driver warnings of pedestrians and cyclists nearby. www.solaris.com

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fuel cell

Fuel cell coach launched in Australia

by Hyzon Motors

US manufacturer Hyzon Motors has unveiled its first zero-emission, fuel cell coach in Brisbane, the first fuel cell coach in Australia. Imported by BLK Auto, the coach seats 50 passengers and boasts a range of up to 430 miles and a 350kW motor. It is the first of a 10-coach order to be supplied to Australia with the remaining nine vehicles in advanced stages of production.

Before delivery, the coach successfully completed a 9,300mile durability test. The initial

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coaches are designed to meet Australian standards, which include a right-hand drive configuration and a design temperature of 55 degrees C. Hyzon plans to offer similar coaches to customers globally from next year.

Hyzon believes the coach market is right for hydrogen-fuelled vehicles, pointing out that they offer refuelling times similar to traditional diesel-powered coaches and suitability for longer-haul public and private transit routes.

Hyzon has set itself a goal of

developing a coach with a 500mile range.

The initial Hyzon Australia vehicles will be imported into Australia but Hyzon expects to localise production of key platforms from 2022. Hyzon has its headquarters in Rochester, NY, with US operations in Chicago and Detroit, and international operations in the Netherlands, Singapore, Australia, Germany, and China. www.hyzonmotors.com blkauto.com.au

November 2021

ev buses

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New electric LFSE+ from Nova Bus

NORTH American bus manufacturer Nova Bus, a member of the Volvo Group, is launching a new 100 per cent electric, longrange dual charging bus, the LFSe+ at the New York Public Transit Association conference in Albany, New York.

“We are very excited to physically unveil our LFSe+ in our home state of New York and

mark an important moment in the history of Nova Bus,” says Martin Larose, president of Nova Bus. “We are taking another big step in the evolution of zero emission transportation, and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of it. All of our buses use the LFS platform and are built with the finest expertise and workmanship of our colleagues based in Plattsburgh.”

Powered with up to 564kWh, the LFSe+ will be operating in several cities, including Broome County in New York state.

The new LFSe+ integrates the proven electric drive motor and power electronics from BAE Systems, which offers lower weight and increased power density for performance and durability. www.novabus.com

Milton Keynes wins funding for plan to roll-out 60-electric buses

MILTON Keynes council has been successful in its bid for funding for a new fleet of 60 electric buses and an upgraded overnight charging depot facility.

The bid was in response to the Department for Transport’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Access November 2021

(ZEBRA) scheme which invited local authorities to submit proposals for a share of £120million grant funding.

Pete Marland, Leader of Milton Keynes council, says: “We’re happy with this announcement which is a very important step in achiev-

ing our climate targets. We’ve shown that MK is fully invested in becoming even cleaner and greener, and that we have the partnerships in place to move quickly to a zero-carbon future with electric buses.” www.miltonkeynes.gov.uk

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hydrogen

Wrightbus says its H2 buses have saved one million kg of CO2 to date

AS COP26 starts, Wrightbus claims that its hydrogen-powered buses have saved one million kg of CO2.

Wrightbus launched its first zero-emission bus - the Streetdeck Hydroliner - last year in Aberdeen, with the fleet entering passenger service in January 2021. The Hydroliner bus emits only water from its tailpipe, with no harmful emissions. In addition to the Aberdeen fleet, the company’s zero emission hydrogen buses are currently in operation in London, Dublin and Belfast. A further 20 buses have

been delivered to Birmingham, with other local authorities showing interest, according to Wrightbus.

Wrightbus has also launched its EV double-deck, Streetdeck Electroliner. In the run-up to COP26, the first Streetdeck Hydroliner model undertook a nationwide tour from London to Scotland, in partnership with RYZE Hydrogen and INEOS. “Hitting such a landmark on the eve of COP26 is incredibly emotive,” says Wrightbus executive chairman Jo Bamford.

“When we set out on this jour-

ney our aim was to offer multiple zero-emission solutions, but to see this number on paper - one million kg of CO2 saved - really puts our efforts into context.

“At Wrightbus we have been relentless in our commitment to zero emissions transport but even though these figures are impressive we cannot let up. As we showcase the Wrightbus Hydroliner, the world’s first hydrogen double-decker bus, to world leaders at COP26, we will continue to press the case for more support for zero emissions transport.” www.wrightbus.com

Five LTAs win fast-track ZEBRA funding THE UK Department for Transport has confirmed that funding worth almost £71million has been awarded to the first five local transport authorities under a ‘fast-track’ process for the ZEBRA scheme which funds zero emission buses. The fund-

16

ing will support up to 335 zero emission buses in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority; Kent County Council; Leicester City Council; Milton Keynes Borough Council; and Warrington Borough Council.

The October 2021 spending

review announced a further £150million would be available to support the ZEBRA scheme, taking the total funding for the scheme to £270million in the financial year 2021 to 2022, from the initial allocated £120 million. www.gov.uk

November 2021

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ev buses

Pelican completes delivery of 55 Yutong electric buses to McGill’s PELICAN Engineering has completed the delivery of its largest order of zero emission Yutong buses to date with 55 buses to McGill’s in Glasgow ahead of the start of COP26. Following the delivery of the initial vehicle in July, the balance of the 54 vehicles was completed in less than seven weeks.

Pelican’s technicians undertook the commissioning of the buses, including fitting customer-specific seats to carrying out high voltage and EV checks and battery maintenance to prepare the vehicles for service.

Head of Yutong Bus UK at Pelican, Ian Downie says: “With demand for zero emission buses and coaches really gaining momentum, it’s vital that our highly trained team in the

UK is able to swiftly fit out the electric vehicles according to our customers’ specifications and get them on the road and in service on schedule. Despite issues arising from Brexit and Covid which have impacted so many industries this

year, we met our commitment to deliver all 55 zero emission buses to McGill’s in Glasgow in time for COP26, giving the bus operator the largest zero emission fleet in Scotland.”

www.pelicanyutong.co.uk

NFI trumpets 50 million zero-emission miles as COP26 kicks off

COINCIDING with the hosting of COP26 in Glasgow, NFI Group has reported that its electric vehicles have collectively travelled more than 50 million zero-emission miles, preventing nearly 140,000 imperial tons of greenhouse gas emissions – the equivalent of removing almost 30,000 cars from the road for one year.

The 50 million milestone comes six months after it reached the 40 million zero-emission mark.

“As we lead up to COP26, we remain cognisant of the need to limit global warming, which

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demands significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions over the next decade,” says Paul Soubry, president and chief executive officer, NFI. “There has never been more urgency for the design and delivery of mobility solutions that are clean, safe, accessible, efficient, and reliable.”

NFI subsidiary Alexander Dennis’ zero-emission, double-deck bus is on display in the COP26 Blue Zone in Glasgow. And NFI will showcase its first full electric line-up of buses and coaches at the American Public Transit Associa-

tion’s (APTA) event this month.

“NFI exists to move people, and we do just that – moving millions of people around the world, each and every day,” adds Soubry.

“Today, we are leading the electrification of transit operations in multiple markets, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand.”

NFI has been manufacturing electric vehicles since 1969, and its current offering includes both battery-electric and fuel cell-electric buses and coaches. nfigroup.com

November 2021

COP26

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Right-hand drive electric eCitaro transports COP26 delegates

THE new right-hand drive eCitaro is being used to transport COP26 delegates around Glasgow during the event. MercedesBenz is partnering with M-Four, an organisation that offers a consultancy service to improve

energy efficiency, fire safety and the environment of social house tenants across Scotland.

During COP26, M-Four will be showcasing the Springburn Estate in North Glasgow where air source heat pumps are reducing energy

usage in the properties by 64 per cent.

Already present in many major European cities, the eCitaro is locally emission-free and almost silent, says EvoBus UK. www.daimler.com

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schools zero

Potential order for 1,000 electric LionC school buses in Canada

THE Lion Electric Company has received a conditional purchase order for 1,000 all-electric LionC school buses from Student Transportation of Canada, a subsidiary of Student Transportation of America. The order is conditional on STC receiving grant funding through Infrastructure Canada’s Zero-Emission Transit Fund.

Under the ZETF program, the Canadian Government aims to invest $2.75billion over five years to support public transit and school bus operators in the transition to electrification.

If confirmed, the purchase order would allow STC to become the largest operator of zeroemission school buses in North America. Deliveries would begin

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in 2022 and run through to 2026.

The electric buses would replace existing diesel vehicles within STC’s Canadian fleet.

Lion, whose controlling shareholder is Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, estimates that the deployment of 1,000 electric school buses would help eliminate approximately 23,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year.

“We applaud STC for its leadership and vision to accelerate the deployment of all-electric school buses in Canada, and we thank them for trusting Lion with such an important transition,” says Marc Bedard, CEO and founder of Lion Electric. “This large-scale deployment would position Canada as a clear leader in the electrification of school transportation,

in great part due to innovative programs like the ZETF.“ Chris Harwood, president, Student Tra nspor tation of Canada, adds: ”We are pleased to support electric school bus deployment in Canada. The ZETF enables school bus electrification to move closer to reality, with students as the true beneficiaries.

“There is still much more work to be done, but STC recognises that as global stewards we must act to operate sustainably. Electrification is a huge step toward improving the environment for our students and the communities we serve.” thelionelectric.com www.rideSTA.com cdpq.com

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Netherlands monarch opens Ebusco factory in Deurne

EBUSCO’S new factory has been officially opened by King Willem Alexander of The Netherlands.

The factory in Deurne will have a production capacity of 500 zero emission buses a year by 2022.

Since 2012, Ebusco has been producing emission-free electric buses and charging systems to

support the transition to sustainable and affordable transport systems.

Its latest model, the Ebusco 3.0, is produced entirely in The Netherlands.

Peter Bijvelds, CEO Ebusco, says: “In our new factory hall in Deurne we will be scaling up

the production of our latest bus model, the Ebusco 3.0. This new factory hall will serve as a blueprint for our international rollout of production capacity. We are extremely proud that King Willem Alexander officially opened the factory hall.” www.ebusco.com

Karsan e-Jest for Split in Croatia KARSAN’S e-Jest electric minibus is the first full electric model from the manufacturer to enter service in Croatia. A 6m e-Jest recently started operating in the Split Municipality.

Karsan exports Vice President Deniz Çetin says: “Our Karsan electric vehicles are in service in

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more than 30 European cities now.

The e-JEST, which was the segment leader in the market in 2020, is still a favourite in the design and performance aspects. So in this context, we are extremely happy that we will be providing services to the coasts of the Adriatic with our e-JEST, which we delivered in

Split, the second largest city of Croatia.”

The e-Jest is equipped with a BMW 170hp electric motor with 290Nm torque and optional 44 or 88kWh batteries, also made

by BMW. It has a range of up to 210 km. www.karsan.t

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New Flyer wins order for seven Xcelsior Charge NGs for SamTrans

SAN Mateo County Transit (SamTrans) has placed an order with New Flyer of America for seven 40ft battery-electric Xcelsior Charge NG transit buses.

SamTrans provides transportation services throughout San Mateo County and into San Francisco and Palo Alto, serving more than 8.5 million bus passengers annually on 70 bus routes. The new bus order is supported by Federal Transit

Administration funds and supports San Mateo County Transit District’s sustainability policy.

Chris Stoddart, president, North American Bus and Coach, says: “Our long-term partnership with SamTrans spans over 40 years, during which time we delivered over 260 buses. The addition of these long-range, zero-emission Xcelsior Charge NG buses to the SamTrans fleet will support the transit agency’s pledge to provide

Why smart people buy Compak Parts

sustainable mobility options, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption, and ultimately contribute to cleaner air in California.”

The buses will operate on a new route connecting East Palo Alto, Redwood City, San Francisco International Airport, and San Bruno BART station via US-101 and are likely to use the freeway’s new managed lanes. www.newflyer.com

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NFTA-Metro to take 10 Xcelsior Charge buses with options for 140 NFI Group has won an order from Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority of Buffalo for 10 Xcelsior Charge buses with options to purchase up to 140 additional buses.

NFTA-Metro provides bus and rail transportation services in Erie and Niagara Counties in New York State, serving more than 24 million passengers annually. NFTA-Metro’s Electric Bus Implementation plan aims to introduce battery-electric buses to its existing fleet of 323 buses,

which are powered with diesel, hybrid, and compressed natural gas.

“We are excited to provide these 10 NFI buses to NFTA-Metro as the transit agency takes its first step towards electrifying its fleet,” says Paul Soubry, president and chief executive officer, NFI. “NFI is leading the evolution to zeroemission mobility by providing the widest range of zero-emission battery and fuel cell-electric buses and coaches, alongside innovative technology and infrastructure,

and is helping transit agencies like NFTA-Metro make the switch to zero-emission.”

Chris Stoddart, president, North American Bus and Coach, adds:. “These Xcelsior Charge buses, each eliminating up to 85-175 tons of greenhouse gas emissions per year, support NFTA-Metro’s goal to provide environment-friendly transportation and help to build a more liveable community in the greater New York region.” www.nfigroup.com

Somerset sets out bid for £163million Bus Service Improvement Plan to deliver better bus services

A blueprint to transform bus travel and make a contribution to tackling climate change has been approved by Somerset County Council’s cabinet. Somerset’s Bus Service Improvement Plan drafted in partnership with local operators sets out a radical overhaul of services in the county and is being submitted for a share of a £3billion funding scheme under the government’s ‘Bus Back Better’ initiative.

The bid for £163 million would fund a wide-range of measures which would be delivered by a new legal partnership between bus operators and the council if it is successful.

The plan includes: • A better network between Somerset’s 15 key towns which

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offers more frequent services running later into the night and at weekends.

• A minimum hourly core network by 2023 with guaranteed services 7am to 7pm.

• An affordable fares system.

• Electrifying the network as soon as possible and exploring alternative fuels with the industry such as hydrogen.

• An overhaul of information for passengers which includes a new Somerset ‘Think Travel portal’ and real time information at key locations.

• A new Somerset Bus Passenger Charter to help the Council and operators understand people’s needs.

• Working with district partners to upgrade bus stations across

Somerset.

“This is an ambitious plan but the government asked for that in order to qualify for funding, so we’re aiming high,” said Somerset County Council cabinet member for highways and transport John Woodman. “It has the potential to make a massive difference.

“Somerset is one of the most difficult places in the country to run commercial buses in, and we have to subsidise more services than most other counties. That’s why it’s vital we get a share of this money to enable us to transform bus services in the county and make it possible for more people to use public transport, rather than driving their private car.” https://www.somerset.gov.uk/roadsand-transport/transport-strategy/

November 2021

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Irizar electrics in operation in Bulgaria TWO Irizar electric buses have gone into service with BurgasBus in Bulgaria. The buses are the first in an order for 34 12m buses and ten 18m articulated vehicles, in addition to 44 ECI-100 chargers from Jema Energy, an Irizar Group company.

“We are very proud of the opportunity to be for the first time in Bulgaria with our own technology,” says Imanol Rego, general director, Irizar e-mobility.

“Burgas joins Paris, London, Schaffhausen, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and a long list of cities with Irizar group electromobility turnkey solutions.” www.irizar.com

Cummins joins Race to Zero and Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign CUMMINS has joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign and the United Nations’ Race to Zero campaign which aims to advocate for support from businesses, investors, cities and regions for climate action.

Cummins says it worked with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in developing the company’s Planet 2050 environmental strategy released in 2019.

The strategy includes 2030 goals aligned to targets established in the Paris Climate Accords, and the aspiration to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

Cummins chairman and CEO Tom Linebarger says: “Climate change is the existential crisis of our time and the biggest threat to our mission as an organisation.

November 2021

“We want to dedicate our innovation, our talent, our resources, and our investments to reduce our impact on the climate. Of course, we have a lot of other challenges to address at the same time to fulfill the needs of our stakeholders, but if we don’t address climate change, there will be nothing else to do.”

Planet 2050 includes two approved science-based targets.

One is to reduce absolute GHG emissions from Cummins’ facilities and operations (scopes 1 and 2) by 50 per cent, which is consistent with keeping global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

The second is an absolute lifetime reduction in the company’s scope 3 GHG emissions from newly sold products by 25 per cent. Scope 3 emissions include emissions from

a product in use by a customer.

Cummins aims to develop commercial low- and no-carbon power technologies such as battery and fuel cell electric.

Since launching two years ago, more than 650 companies from around the world have joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C with a combined market capitalization of $13trillion. Other members of the group include Apple, General Motors, Johnson & Johnson, and Volvo.

The Race to Zero campaign has built a coalition of more than 3,000 businesses, more than 700 cities, more than 600 institutions of higher education and more than 150 investors supporting net-zero initiatives. www.cummins.com

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Funding boost for roll-out of electric buses in New South Wales THE Australian Renewable Energy Agency, ARENA, has provided $5million to support the pilot deployment of Australia’s largest electric bus fleet consisting of 40 electric buses, charging infrastructure and a retrofitted bus depot in Leichhardt in Sydney’s inner west district.

The $36million project is to be delivered by a joint venture between Transgrid and Zenobe with funding and support from project partners including Transit Systems and Transport for NSW. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation is also providing $24.5million.

The three-year project aims to drive the commercialisation of electric buses in the country.

As part of the project, the Leichhardt depot is being retrofitted to include the use of 40 electric buses with a combination of 368kWh and 422kWh batteries, five 120kW electric bus chargers capable of charging two buses at a time, plus 31 80kW electric bus chargers, 2.5MW /4.9MWh of stationary batteries, and 387kW of rooftop solar PV. The new electric bus fleet will operate in Sydney’s Inner West, the CBD, Mascot and Green Square.

Darren Miller, ARENA CEO says: “Heavy vehicle transport is an important area to target given that together buses and trucks account for 25 per cent of transport related carbon emissions and five per cent of Australia’s total carbon emissions.

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“This trial represents the next step in helping to reduce emissions in public transport and heavy transport.

“We’re excited to be working alongside the consortium in showcasing this Australian-first initiative that we hope will kickstart the rollout of electric buses throughout the nation.”

The first 12 of the 40 new electric buses are entering service now with the balance being delivered over the next few months.

The first buses will be operated by Transit Systems, owned by SeaLink Travel, which is already running 15 electric buses in Sydney.

“Our customers are telling us

they feel better on an electric bus – and that’s really important to us because it means sustainability isn’t just a trend or catch phrase – it’s a real vision that we can all connect on and work towards,” says said Sealink CEO Clint Feuerherdt.

Zenobē co-founder and director Steven Meersman adds: “Transgrid and Zenobe will be proudly showcasing what is possible when it comes to the delivery of zero emission transport and we commend Transit Systems on their commitment to producing more sustainable transport solutions.” www.transgrid.com.au www.zenobe.com

November 2021

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BYD expands in Catalonia with new electric buses for TGO DX TWO BYD 12m eBuses are on order to operate in Olesa de Montserrat with TGO DX. The vehicles will replace older diesel models and provide a service on route M3 to neighbouring Esparreguera, just outside Barcelona, and connect with the regional train station.

The order from TGO DX expands BYD’s customer base in Catalonia. With delivery scheduled for Q3 2022, the delivery will also see the deployment of BYD’s latest generation 12m model, which had its debut at the 2019 Busworld show. Along with Deutsche Bahn’s DB Regio Bus division earlier this year, TGO DX is one of the first operators to

order BYD’s latest model.

The new bus has enhanced 422 kWh battery capacity to provide increased energy density and extended range capability, and a new CO2 air-conditioning system.

For f leet managers, t he FleetLink fleet management tool monitors performance parameters across the eBus fleet, supporting

optimum utilisation and maximum uptime.

“With the electrification of the M3 line, we continue to work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals included in the United Nations 2030 Agenda,” says Carme Pros, CEO, TGO DX. www.byd.com

Snam, Toyota and CaetanoBus work to promote hydrogen mobility SNAM, Toyota and CaetanoBus have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote and accelerate the introduction of hydrogen-based mobility. The partners believe that hydrogen may have a key role in the decarbonisation of transport., Alessio Torelli, Snam chief mobility officer says: ”This collaboration aims to boost the use of hydrogen as a key energy vector to enable widespread decarbonisation in the mobility sector.

With this agreement, we aim to build an alliance between operators in the energy and transport sectors to offer end users competNovember 2021

itive sustainable hydrogen mobility solutions “.

Luigi Ksawery Luca, CEO, Toyota Motor Italia, adds: “We are very pleased to join forces with Snam and CaetanoBus, with whom we share the commitment to a more sustainable future. The presence of an adequate hydrogen refuelling infrastructure is a necessary condition for developing its full potential for mobility. For this it will be essential that the main players in the production and distribution system work in synergy, and this agreement moves exactly in this direction”.

And Patrícia Vasconcelos, CEO,

CaetanoBus, says: “Collaborations like this are very important to unite different companies, with different products, but with the same goals and vision for the future: decarbonisation and better lives for the people around the cities. This is another step into hydrogen society and to build an entire value chain.”

The partners will be looking at ‘end-to-end’ hydrogen mobility projects which can be implemented in Italy and in other European countries. www.snam.it www.toyota-europe.com www.caetanobus.pt

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Civitas awards recognise cities taking action on sustainability THE cities of Parma (Italy), Aachen (Germany), and Gdynia (Poland) were recognised in the CIVITAS Awards 2021.

Parma recognised that it needs to reduce local car use and put in place a new low emission zone which won it the Climate-Neutral award.

Tiziana Benassi, Parma deputy mayor for environmental sustainability says: “Our ambition, shared amongst the public and private organisations that are partners of the Parma Carbon Neutrality Alliance, is to reach carbon neutrality by 2030: a very ambitious yet achievable goal if we all believe change is possible and we work every day to fight climate change.

“Limiting access for the most polluting cars with the introduction of a Low Emission Zone across the entire urban area is our first step in the systemic transformation to make Parma a green and carbon-neutral city.

The Green area, whose heart is the historical city centre (Blue area), will contribute to a higher

quality of life of everyone visiting, working and living in Parma.”

Aachen was the winner of the Transformation award in recognition that, since 2020, the city has transformed 4.2km of cycling routes, built 1,076 bicycle racks, 150 new e-vehicle charging stations, and introduced the first hydrogen garbage trucks in Germany.

Gdynia won this year’s Legacy award for its implementation of new bus lanes, cargo bikes, pedestrian-friendly zones, trolley- and

clean buses, mobility campaigns, and data management.

Marek Łucyk, Gdynia deputy mayor, says: “Since joining the CIVITAS community, we as a city have had the great opportunity to learn, develop and implement innovative solutions, as well as to share our knowledge on sustainable mobility. This has increased the quality and accelerated the process of our city’s development towards a green and people-friendly city.” civitas.eu/awards

Taiwan’s Tatung announces plan to target electric bus market TATUNG is planning to enter the EV market and offer powertrain solutions, especially for buses.

Tatung president Chaney Ho says “Tatung has been a partner for EV motors since 2006, but we lacked a complete powertrain

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solution.

“Our collaboration with the Industrial Technology Research Institute to develop a powertrain is bearing fruit, and we already have orders for our 250kW powertrain.”

The company says it is also developing a 330kW powertrain

and is planning to target the EV bus sector, initially in Taiwan and then globally.

“Next year we hope to massproduce our 330kW powertrain and design it into commercial logistics vehicles,” adds Ho. www.tatung.com

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Six electric Volvo 7900e singledecks for Stagecoach in Scotland

STAGECOACH has taken delivery of six new Volvo 7900e singledeck opportunity-charged buses.

The vehicles will primarily be based in the Kilmarnock depot and will be in use on Service One routes serving the Irvine Valley, Hurlford, Darvel, Galston and Newmilns. This is a semirural inter-urban route and was the first of this type in the UK to deploy opportunity-charged vehicles.

Managing Director, Stagecoach West Scotland Fiona

Doherty says: “The route we were purchasing for demanded an opportunity charge vehicle, as some routes will cover 270 miles in a day. As a result, the 7900e was the best choice for us.

“The Volvo 7900e can cover up to 100 miles between battery replenishment so the passengers and drivers will be more than satisfied on the service.”

Stagecoach has installed a charging infrastructure with a gantry-mounted 300kW pantograph charger in the Kilmarnock

bus station.

Daniel Barwick, national account manager, Volvo Buses, adds: “Stagecoach are a longstanding Volvo Bus operator and partner, and this order is a fantastic opportunity for it to showcase the adaptability of these electric vehicles by using them across rural routes.

“These vehicles will help Stagecoach drive down emissions in their operation and improve air quality in the area.” www.volvobus.com

Culver to take six Xcelsior Charge NGs NEW Flyer of America Inc. has received an order from Culver CityBus for six battery-electric Xcelsior Charge NG 40ft transit buses. Culver CityBus provides public transit in Culver City, California, with more than five million annual passenger trips.

The order is in line with the California’s Innovative Clean

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Transit regulation, which mandates transition to 100 per cent zero-emission bus fleets by 2040.

“NFI’s leadership of zero-emission vehicles in North America is unrivalled,” says Paul Soubry, president and CEO, NFI. “Since 1998, NFI has delivered nearly 100 buses to Culver CityBus. With these new electric buses,

the agency immediately reduces greenhouse gas emissions while experiencing 13 per cent longer range and up to 90 per cent better energy recovery.”

New Flyer’s Xcelsior Charge NG battery-electric buses provide up to 525kWh of power and 250 mile range on a single charge.

www.newflyer.com

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Ev Dynamics delivers first electric minibuses to the Philippines CHINESE builder Ev Dynamics has delivered more than 70 Comet electric minibuses to the Philippines. The delivery is part of a long-term supply agreement signed in March 2021 between Ev and GET Worldwide, following the first batch of electric minibuses supplied to Metro Manila and Davao in the Philippines in December 2020.

Under the agreement, Ev will provide GET Worldwide with no fewer than 500 vehicle units within 24 months from the effective date of the agreement. The electric vehicles will be mainly used in the Philippines and Malaysia.

Freddie Tinga, CEO, GET Worldwide, says: “The Philippines alone could have a demand of at least 100,000 units of this type of vehicle. We have to replace over 300,000 old gasoline minibuses (Jeepneys).”

Miguel Valldecabres Polop, CEO, Ev Dynamics, adds: “Our

production plant in Chongqing, which boasts sufficient capacity and advanced technologies, has been operating at full steam to meet the increasing volume of overseas orders. Though our production schedule and fulfilment of orders have been interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, our output has been picking up steadily thanks to the reliable supply chains in the PRC. We are confident that we can complete the sales orders from the Philippines and other orders for e-platforms and

e-buses elsewhere overseas.”

For the European market, Ev Dynamics’ 12m E-Bus model has passed homologation tests. Leveraging the business network and experience of strategic partner Quantron AG, the group believes the high-performing and environmentally-friendly bus will be successful in the European market. In addition, Ev Dynamics has secured an order for 12m e-chassis and 12m city buses from Latin America. evdynamics.com

Hydrogen partnership between Ballard Power Systems and battery manufacturer Forsee Power BALLARD Power Systems and battery manufacturer Forsee Power have agreed a strategic partnership to jointly develop integrated fuel cell battery solutions for heavy-duty mobility applications such as buses, trucks, trains and ships.

Ballard says it will supply the

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fuel cell system and associated control units, while Forsee will provide the battery system and battery management, cooling system and high-voltage DC/DC converters to the partnership.

Ballard CEO Randy MacEwan says: “Today, OEM customers typically procure the various pieces

of the fuel cell and battery powertrain separately, and then need to integrate them together. By offering pre-designed and fully optimised and integrated fuel cell-battery solutions to our customers, we expect to ease implementation friction points.” www.ballard.com

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Wiesbaden receives first of 50 H2.City Gold fuel cell buses

FOLLOWING an order placed at the beginning of 2021, Wiesbaden has received the first of 10 Caetano H2.City Gold hydrogen buses.

The 12m hydrogen-powered buses will be operated by ESWE Verkehr on routes 16 and 17.

The two-door H2.CityGold

buses will have a Toyota fuel cell, and a small battery pack with 44kWh capacity and a Siemens power train with 180kW peak power.

The hydrogen tanks have a total capacity of 37.5kg to offer a range over 400km.

“We are very happy with the

arrival of the first H2.City Gold in Wiesbaden,” says Patrícia Vasconcelos, CEO, CaetanoBus. “It’s a pleasure to have our mobility solutions chosen to be part of a sustainable and greener way of living in such an important market for us.” www.caetanobus.pt

California’s Foothill Transit commissions hydrogen fuel station following order for six buses

CLEAN Energy Fuels is to design, build and maintain a hydrogen station and supply liquid hydrogen fuel for bus operator Foothill Transit in Southern California.

“Being awarded our first hydrogen station and supply contract for Foothill Transit is very important to Clean Energy because it demonstrates our ability to move to different alternative fuels as our customers expand to other technologies,” said Andrew J Littlefair, president and CEO, Clean Energy. “Transit November 2021

agencies like Foothill have been on the forefront of alternative fuels for decades because it’s in their DNA to serve their communities with clean transportation.”

Clean Energy will build its first hydrogen station in Pomona, CA in a contract valued at more than $13million.

The project will be funded using assistance from the Federal Transportation Agency. Foothill Transit has placed an initial order for 20 New Flyer fuel cell buses, and the station is designed to support

many more.

“Our new hydrogen fuel cell fleet is the next step in our evolution towards a zero emissions future,” says Doran Barnes, CEO, Foothill Transit.

“Our long-time partner, Clean Energy, has been providing low carbon RNG for our buses for years and we look forward to continuing to work with them as we expand into hydrogen fuel cell technology and fuel.” cleanenergyfuels.com foothilltransit.org

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Ambitious plan to make all New York school buses electric by 2035

NEW York has agreed a city-wide climate adaptation plan which includes an ambition to ensure its school buses will be all-electric by September 2035. The city council says the move is needed “to reduce our carbon footprint and children’s exposure to fossil fuel pollutants”.

“Environmental justice communities, such as the one I represent, have had to deal with a host of economic and health dis-

parities,” says NYC council member Daniel Dromm. “Dirty buses and the noxious fumes they spew most impact the individuals who spend the longest time on them: drivers, and special education and homeless students. Residents near schools and bus stops have long suffered from the air and noise pollution of our now-antiquated f leet. If New York City can do this, every municipality can - and should.”

The legislation will require the department of education to report on a series of implementation targets in 2023, 2028, and 2033 to demonstrate progress towards the all-electric pledge.

By 2023, it is envisaged that there will be 75 electric school buses in operation, and by July 2028, 20 per cent of the fleet should be allelectric, with a 60 per cent target

by July 2033. council.nyc.gov

First Bus runs COP26 shuttle service with new ADL/BYD electric fleet

FIRST Glasgow is operating the shuttle service for COP26 delegates between city centre and the Blue and Green zones using its new fleet of ADL/BYD electric buses, which were part-funded through Transport Scotland’s SULEB scheme.

Duncan Cameron, interim managing director, First Bus in Scotland says, “First Bus Scotland are delighted to have been chosen to operate the official

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COP26 shuttle service and will be working closely with SPT, Transport Scotland and the cabinet office to ensure a smooth and efficient service can be delivered for all delegates attending the event.

“As leaders in sustainable mobility, we are fully aligned with the Government’s ambitions for a net-zero carbon transport system, including zero-emission bus fleets. We have already committed to achieving this by 2035 and we

look forward to showcasing this to delegates.”

The new electric fleet is part of a plan to transform First’s Caledonia bus depot on the south side of the city centre. Already the UK’s largest depot, the investment will see it converted into one of the UK’s largest electric fleet charging stations, with the potential for more than 150 vehicles to be recharged at a time. www.firstbus.co.uk

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Flix acquires Greyhound as FirstGroup completes US divestment FIRSTGROUP has announced the sale of its US Greyhound operating business to a whollyowned subsidiary of FlixMobility as part of a divestment strategy that will see it focus on its UK public transport businesses. First says the sale is worth $172million, including $140million paid initially, with $32million in unconditional deferred consideration to be paid in instalments over 18 months.

The divestment of Greyhound follows the earlier sale of its other US businesses First Student and First Transit, and came in the wake of a bruising period with the group clashing with some of its investors.

FirstGroup has now agreed to return up to £500million to its shareholders at 105 pence per share.

The purchase of Greyhound Lines represents continuing expansion for FlixMobility which

serves over 2,500 destinations in 36 countries outside of the US with 400,000 daily connections.

Greyhound currently operates to around 2,400 destinations across North America with nearly 16 million passengers each year.

Jochen Engert, founder and chief executive officer of FlixMobility, says: “The continuous expansion of our services through partnerships and acquisitions has always been an integral part of

our growth strategy to build our global presence. The acquisition of Greyhound is a major step forward in the US.” David Martin, executive chairman, FirstGroup, adds: “The sale of Greyhound to FlixMobility is part of our portfolio rationalisation strategy to refocus FirstGroup on its leading UK public transport businesses.” www.firstgroup.com www.flixmobility.com

Coventry sales event to promote Mercedes Tourismos

EVOBUS (UK) is hosting a sales event at its National Handover Centre in Coventry this month.

The company will welcome guests looking to upgrade the fleet or learn how to get more from Mercedes-Benz Tourismos.

The event takes place at 09:00 – 16:00, 11 – 12 November 2021.

The EvoBus team will provide all-day refreshments with a wide selection of Tourismo stock vehicles present, including new, November 2021

nearly new, ex-demonstrator and select BusStore used coaches.

Exclusive to the event, year-end offers will be available on all stock units, provided by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

The new Tourismo Access will be on display with the opportunity to learn more about the entry-level coach with PSVAR specification.

From OMNIplus, the Tourismo TechBar will cater for current and future Tourismo owners with free

advice, including tips and tricks and demonstrations, from resident Tourismo experts.

Zero-cost activation and preventative maintenance solutions are the focal point from OMNIplus ON. The digital services manager will be on hand to demonstrate the optimisation potential for operators using the comprehensive online platform. www.daimler.com

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