Equipmake has further South American success
Equipmake has received an initial order for five Zero Emission Drivetrains (ZEDs) from South American bus manufacturer Agrale.
The ZED is an integrated systems solution which includes Equipmake motors, control systems, inverters, HVAC and battery packs and will be utilised in the construction of five MT17.0e buses for DOTA, the largest bus operator in Argentina. This follows the successful trial in Buenos Aires of a MT17.0e zero emissions electric bus featuring Equipmake’s proprietary ZED, which resulted in the first electric bus made entirely in Argentina going into operation in Buenos Aires, announced last week.
Equipmake’s ZED is a modular and scalable electric drivetrain solution, applicable to both single- and double-deck applications, across new buses and for repowering of existing vehicles.
Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake
The ZED features a patented, ultra-efficient thermal management system, which maintains the battery pack, motor and inverter at an optimal temperature, therefore maximising vehicle range.
An advanced water-glycol cooling circuit brings an additional benefit by providing interior heating during cold conditions with captured thermal energy. Once the battery has been depleted following a duty cycle, it can be recharged at the depot via a CCS DC charging point.
Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake, said: “We are delighted to receive an initial order from Agrale for five Zero Emission Drivetrains following the successful trial of the pioneering MT17.0e electric bus in Buenos Aires. We have been working with Agrale for six years on the development of zero emission busses for the South American market and this initial order represents the exciting next phase in our expanding relationship.”
Edson Ares Sixto Martins, CEO, Agrale, added: “Agrale’s decision to utilise Equipmake’s Zero Emission Drivetrains for these initial five buses is a result of the excellent relationship we have with the Company and the high quality of its technology. We are incredibly proud to be moving forward together in, what we believe is, an important partnership to bring electric buses to the streets of South America.”