eCitaro completes National Express Coventry trial
A Mercedes-Benz eCitaro has completed a trial in the National Express Coventry.
The electric-powered eCitaro was used on one of the operator’s busiest corridors on the Coventry network, serving over 40 bus stops each way, which connect the city centre with neighbouring Longford, Bedworth and Nuneaton. Additional routes saw the eCitaro travel between University Hospital Coventry and the city centre with a variety of stops in residential areas between.
National Express Coventry is supporting the drive for cleaner air in the city with the ongoing demonstration of electric buses across multiple manufactures as part of its fleet decarbonisation programme.
The bus undertook high-capacity commuter services, making it a regular sight around Coventry city. It also completed journeys on two routes through south Birmingham, connecting residents and communities to amenities including schools, shops and healthcare facilities.
Between the National Express Coventry and Yardley Wood depots, an overnight charging regime was adopted. Supporting fleet availability and plannability, the eCitaro provided real-time charging status updates.
“It has been a great opportunity to test the vehicle and better understand its capabilities and efficiencies under our usual operating conditions” – David Bradford, Managing Director of National Express Bus
David Bradford, Managing Director of National Express Bus, said: “National Express is already leading from the front with our transition to zero-emission buses. Over a third of our fleet in Coventry is now electric and we have a bold ambition to have a fully zero-emission bus fleet across the West Midlands by 2030.
“As we continue our journey we are delighted to have been able to trial the all-new Mercedes eCitaro electric single-decker. It has been a great opportunity to test the vehicle and better understand its capabilities and efficiencies under our usual operating conditions, with excellent feedback about the build quality and the smooth and comfortable ride.”
- The Mercedes-Benz eCitaro supplied to National Express Coventry for demonstration purposes was provided by Mercedes-Benz Bus Sales at EvoBus (UK)