New British-built electric bus with 250-mile range revealed

British EV experts Equipmake have revealed a new electric double decker bus that is to be built in Norfolk and promises a cost-effective way for local bus fleets to go electric.

© Provided by Motoring Electric
Jewel E electric double decker bus

The Jewel E EV bus, developed in association with Spanish bus builder Beulas, will have a driving range of up to 250 miles which Equipmake says is the longest of any electric double decker in the world and “more than enough for a day’s running”.

Figures for the average daily mileage of a bus vary greatly but the national average is believed to be around 100-150 miles, although rural buses will cover much longer distances.

It will be powered by a range of battery packs up to a mammoth 543kWh. Charging will take place overnight at the depot via a CCS DC charging port.

© Provided by Motoring Electric
Jewel E electric double decker bus

Notably, the Jewel E is the first electric bus to meet the forthcoming 2024 Transport for London safety standards.

Testing is due to begin later this year and the first in-service trials will start in early 2022.

Equipmake has honed its high-tech new Zero Emission Drivetrain (ZED) for the Jewel E body, which will be produced by Beulas in Girona, Spain and then shipped over to the UK.

“Set to be built at an all-new manufacturing facility near to our home in Snetterton, Norfolk,” said Equipmake MD Ian Foley, “it will bring new jobs to the local area and has the potential to play a crucial role in supporting the Government’s commitment to introduce 4,000 EV buses in the coming three years.

“And with demand increasing globally for electric buses, we believe it provides the right solution both nationally and internationally.”

The firm intends to begin full manufacturing and sales of the Jewel E later in 2022.

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