Equipmake supplies York electric bus fleet

Equipmake, a specialist in electrification products in the automotive, aerospace, bus, coach, and marine industries, has delivered a fleet of upgraded electric buses to First York.

The 12 Optare Versa singe-deck models have been converted by Equipmake, incorporating the company’s Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, which in this specification, features a 274kWh capacity battery, providing a range of 150 miles in all UK weather conditions.

It follows a successful trial of an initial converted prototype vehicle, which allowed engineering teams at First York and Equipmake to evaluate its performance.

The 12 completed buses are now in service across the city.

Simon Carlisle, engineering director of First Bus in North & West Yorkshire, said: “Following a successful initial trial, it’s great to see this new fleet of 12 upgraded, all-electric buses operational across York.

“Equipmake’s repower technology is an important step in our transition to achieving a fully electric fleet in York, continuing to help improve air quality in the city and supporting the goal of First Bus nationally to have a zero-emission fleet by 2035.”

Ian Foley, chief executive at Equipmake, added: “We are delighted this 12-strong fleet of repowered Optare Versas is now operating in the city for First York, with all featuring our electric drivetrain.

“This is fantastic news for passengers and the people of York, making a significant contribution to local air quality. For operators, we believe that repowering existing buses offers an excellent opportunity to progress zero-emission targets, while potentially making cost savings in parallel.”

Source: https://www.insidermedia.com/news/yorkshire/equipmake-supplies-york-electric-bus-fleet