ADL and Allison in electric collaboration
Allison Transmission and Alexander Dennis have announced they are to work together to develop electric buses.
A first step in this strategic alliance is Allison’s new ABE Series electric powertrain systems for low-floor bus applications. This will premiere with the Foothill Transit launch order for Alexander Dennis’ interurban and commuter Enviro500 tri-axle double-deckers in North America. The buses can carry up to 86 seated passengers.
The news follows Allison’s recent acquisition of the UK’s Vantage Power, a designer and manufacturer of powertrain electrification and connectivity technologies for heavy-duty vehicles.
President, Alexander Dennis, Robert Davey, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Allison on our first electric double-decker order in North America for Foothill Transit. As the world’s largest double-decker bus manufacturer, we see an increasing demand for electric buses, which combines the same high-passenger capacity and outstanding comfort that our vehicles are renowned for, with zero-emission technology. Partnering with Allison, and leveraging their technology expertise, is helping us achieve this goal.”
Allison Transmission, President and CEO, David S. Graziosi, said: “Allison has a long history with the bus and transit market utilizing our electric hybrid system. This is the next evolution of electrification in this market, and we are pleased to meet the needs and expectations of our customers.”
ADL supplies electric buses using BYD’s battery and electric technology.