Repowering a bus enables operators to upcycle their existing fleets, negating the purchase of new electric buses, while also avoiding needless scrappage. Repowering also extends the life of the buses, which can be in operation for many years.
The Kleanbus repower programme begins with a full base vehicle evaluation and analysis of operator duty cycles, enabling a conceptual drivetrain to be modelled and validated through simulation. In parallel, the diesel engine and all associated systems are removed. The packaging space is CAD scanned and digitised to create a bespoke electric e-drivetrain in a box platform that perfectly fits the engine compartment. Once prototypes are created, they are subjected to a rigorous test and validation programme ahead of certification.
The Volvo B5TL buses that have been identified for the pilot will be repowered using Kleanbus' advanced modular electric platform featuring an optimised battery size to suit its duty cycle without overburdening the vehicle with unnecessary weight, which would otherwise waste energy.
Kleanbus' e-powertrain module combines components from leading Tier 1 suppliers with Kleanbus' own integration technology and proprietary software. The solution can convert a bus, whether single or double-decker, from ICE to electric. Kleanbus can utilise a variety of batteries and motors, creating purpose-built e-powertrains tailored to a bus operator’s needs.
According to Kleanbus, once the e-drivetrain solution has been designed and tested, it takes less than two weeks to repower an individual bus.