The global market for buses and coaches is worth close to £90 billion and is expected to increase by almost 7% annually until 2028, reaching a value of over £130 billion. Road vehicles, including buses and coaches, are a major cause of air pollution in many cities, emitting nitrogen oxides and tiny particles into the air. As the push for electrification grows, the question arises: Can buses and coaches run on electricity?
BYD, one of the largest suppliers in this sector, offers a modular approach where the core components of the powertrain, steering, regeneration, and battery systems are fixed into a platform. This allows local bus manufacturers to create solutions for their specific markets. This modular approach is popular in the electric vehicle industry, enabling companies like Stellantis and Volkswagen-Audi to create multiple vehicle ranges based on a proven core design.
To assist authorities and operators in planning for electric buses, vendors often provide a 20-year “total cost of ownership” calculation that considers factors such as power supply, maintenance costs, and available grant funding. They also recommend funding partners and infrastructure providers to support the transition to zero-emission bus fleets.
In the UK, Alexander Dennis, a subsidiary of NFI Group, is a leading supplier of battery-electric buses. They have recently introduced their next generation of buses, including the Enviro100EV small bus and the Enviro400EV double decker. These buses have been designed as zero-emission vehicles from the ground up, allowing for striking designs and reduced weight. They offer impressive ranges of up to 260 miles and 285 miles respectively, making them practical choices for different transit routes.
The battery systems in these buses come from Impact Clean Power Technology (ICPT), using NMC lithium-ion cells to provide a higher total energy throughput. The batteries are strategically positioned within the chassis and rear of the vehicle to protect against external loads and impacts. The use of standardized pack dimensions and interfaces ensures compatibility with future battery technologies.
The Enviro400EV double decker features a conventional lower saloon layout with a flat floor to improve passenger comfort and increase overall capacity. It also offers a panoramic view through full-depth windows and optional skylights on the upper deck. The driving experience for operators has been enhanced with improved features in the cab and better visibility for the driver.
Commercial buses and coaches come with extended warranty options, and suppliers provide aftermarket divisions for spares, training, and service support. Onboard connected systems provide operators with vehicle and fleet performance data for enhanced uptime.
BYD, a Chinese EV maker, is a key player in the commercial vehicle market. Their buses are already in service worldwide, and their expansion into Europe, including a manufacturing plant in Hungary, indicates their commitment to the industry. Other manufacturers like Tata are also increasing their manufacturing capabilities, including a battery plant in the UK.
With the pressure to decarbonize and the potential long-term financial savings of electric vehicles, a significant portion of the coach and bus infrastructure is expected to transition to electric motors in the next decade.
Is it possible for buses and coaches to be powered by electricity?
In recent years, there has been growing concern about the impact of conventional fossil fuel-powered transportation on the environment and public health. As a result, various industries, including the automotive sector, have been exploring alternative energy sources to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable mobility. One such technology gaining momentum is electric power. With increasing advancements in battery technology and infrastructure support, it is indeed possible for buses and coaches to be powered by electricity.
Electric buses, also known as e-buses, offer numerous advantages over their traditional fossil fuel counterparts. First and foremost, they are significantly more environmentally friendly as they emit zero tailpipe emissions. Electric vehicles (EVs) produce fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants, contributing to cleaner air and a reduction in adverse health effects related to air pollution. Furthermore, with the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, the overall carbon footprint of electric buses can be further minimized, making them an attractive option for sustainable transportation.
Another major advantage of electric buses is the potential for reduced operating and maintenance costs. While they generally have a higher initial purchase price, they have lower energy and maintenance costs in the long run. Electric motors are inherently more efficient than internal combustion engines, resulting in lower energy consumption and fuel costs. Additionally, electric buses have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes, resulting in reduced maintenance requirements and associated costs.
One of the main challenges to the widespread adoption of electric buses is the range limitation imposed by current battery technology. Compared to fossil fuel-powered vehicles, electric buses have limited driving range due to the limited energy storage capacity of batteries. However, this challenge is being addressed through ongoing research and development. Battery technology is rapidly evolving, and innovations such as improved energy density and fast-charging capabilities are being pursued by industry leaders, governments, and research institutions alike. With continued advancements, electric buses will soon be able to cover longer distances without compromising performance or passenger comfort.
Infrastructure is another critical element that needs to be considered for the successful integration of electric buses into existing transportation systems. Public charging stations need to be strategically located and well-maintained to ensure convenient and reliable access to electricity. Governments and local authorities have a crucial role to play in supporting the development of charging infrastructure, including funding and regulatory support. Collaboration with power grid operators and utility companies is also essential to address the increased demand for electricity and enable smart charging systems that can optimize energy usage.
Despite the challenges, several cities and regions around the world have successfully implemented electric bus fleets, demonstrating the viability of this technology. For instance, Shenzhen, one of China’s largest cities, has electrified its entire bus fleet, which consists of over 16,000 buses – the largest electric bus fleet in the world. Similar initiatives have been undertaken in cities such as London, Paris, and Santiago, showcasing the enthusiasm and commitment towards sustainable transportation.
In conclusion, it is indeed possible for buses and coaches to be powered by electricity. The advantages of electric buses, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and the potential to harness renewable energy sources, make them an appealing option for sustainable transportation. Although challenges such as limited range and infrastructure requirements need to be overcome, ongoing research and development efforts are swiftly addressing these barriers. As governments, industries, and communities unite to promote sustainable mobility, the electrification of buses and coaches represents a significant step forward in achieving a cleaner and greener future.