ADL hybrids unveiled in Dublin
Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) has announced that Ireland’s National Transport Authority (NTA) has unveiled the first of an initial batch of 100 Alexander Dennis Enviro400ER plug-in hybrid buses and has ordered a further 180 of these zero-emission capable buses for delivery in 2021.
The orders form part of a five-year framework agreement for a total of up to 600 ADL Enviro400ER buses first announced in January 2020.
Of the initial 100 vehicles, 74 will be operated by Dublin Bus in the Irish capital, and a further 26 will be operated by Bus Éireann in Galway. The first vehicles are expected to enter service in early 2021 and have been unveiled in Dublin.
The Enviro400ER double deck diesel-electric hybrid is capable of at least 2.5 km continuous electric range with no exhaust emissions, according to ADL. It utilises the BAE Systems Series-ER hybrid system with a 32kWh next-generation lithium-ion battery energy storage system that can be charged externally via a plug-in connection, which means that the Enviro400ER is recognised as a ‘clean vehicle’ by the European Union’s Clean Vehicles Directive. In addition to its continuous zero tailpipe emissions range within geofenced areas, the Enviro400ER switches off its diesel engine at low speeds during approach to and departure from stops and when stationary.
The buses feature wheelchair access ramps supplied by PSV Transport Systems.
NTA Chief Executive Officer, Anne Graham, said: “The NTA is committed to the transition to zero and low emission public transport vehicles, and with these new ADL buses, we are taking a significant step towards a more sustainable bus fleet. These vehicles will also add some badly-needed extra capacity to our city fleets in Dublin and Galway and we look forward to them becoming operational early in the new year.”
“This new generation of double deck buses for Ireland once again demonstrates that with ADL’s focus on innovation, we are building the buses our cities need to solve their transport challenges” – Paul Davies, ADL President and Managing Director
ADL President & Managing Director, Paul Davies said: “The Alexander Dennis Enviro400ER is ideally suited for flexible operating needs including zero-emission running at air pollution hotspots. With the ability to externally charge the batteries, the use of onboard power generation can be further reduced. This new generation of double deck buses for Ireland once again demonstrates that with ADL’s focus on innovation, we are building the buses our cities need to solve their transport challenges.”
Ian Wilson, Director of Business Development for Power & Propulsion Solutions at BAE Systems, said: “Clean transportation technology in our cities is critical to reach a zero emission future. Our system will help Ireland take the next step towards full electrification and improve the air quality where people live, work and visit.”