NatEx and Zenobe welcome electric milestone

Zenobe Energy has welcomed the launch of National Express Group’s first electric buses on its Coventry network. Linking the city centre and University Hospital, the first buses will begin operating this Sunday.

Zenobe, which powers 25% of the EV bus market in the UK, is providing National Express Coventry with its end-to-end solution, including batteries, the charging system at the depot with ten dedicated rapid chargers and a software platform which helps monitor and optimise energy use. Ten more brand new electric buses are now being rolled out by National Express Coventry. All 29 Enviro400 EV double-deckers have been manufactured by Alexander Dennis Ltd (ADL) and BYD Europe.

The move is another important step taken by National Express Group, following a pledge earlier this year to transition to a fully zero emission UK bus fleet by 2030.

Steven Meersman, co-founder of Zenobe Energy, said: “We are delighted to see our partnership with National Express help improve air quality in Coventry. Our solution is helping Coventry and National Express meet net-zero commitments, reduce pollution and ultimately save lives.

“Our service-based model means we’re there for our partners throughout the journey, not just on day one. During an uncertain period, we hope our work alongside transport operators can help ensure that the UK continues working towards a cleaner, greener future.”

Martin Hancock, National Express Bus, Development Director, said: “In our ambition to become the UK’s most sustainable transport company, National Express Bus has set itself the bold target of having a fully zero emission fleet by 2030.

“To achieve this in such a timescale, we need to be innovative. It’s absolutely critical that we deliver for our customers. We need a reliable solution so we know our buses will start in the morning – every morning. So we are very pleased to be partnering with Zenobe in our electrification of our bus depot.

“By collaborating with Zenobe, we have been able to utilise a professional turnkey solution that has clearly demonstrated their position as a market leader in the field of battery supported charging infrastructure.”