The vehicle is the first Enviro100EV, and more broadly the first next-generation Alexander Dennis electric bus, supplied to an independent operator. The purchase was part-funded by the Scottish Government through the first phase of the Scottish Zero Emission Bus challenge fund (ScotZEB 1).
Shuttle Buses is Scotland’s only employee-owned bus company. Its 75-strong workforce runs a fleet of 55 buses and coaches from its Ayrshire base in Kilwinning.
At just 8.5m long and 2.35m wide, the Enviro100EV fits tight streets in housing estates and narrow country lanes that larger buses cannot reach while offering the same engineering quality, work environment and passenger comfort as a bigger bus.
In Shuttle Buses’ specification, it offers 25 passenger seats as well as a wheelchair space easily accessed through the main door.
The Enviro100EV delivers exceptional energy efficiency, certified by the Zemo Partnership at just 0.54kWh/km over the UK Bus Cycle alongside a stunning 97% grid-to-wheel energy efficiency. Equipped with 354kWh batteries, this gives the ‘big small bus’ class-leading range on a single charge.
Operational data is logged by on-board AD Connect telematics, which Shuttle Buses can access through its AD24 account to see how the bus performs and to facilitate reporting.
Shuttle Buses managing director, Ross Granger, said: “The Enviro100EV is a great addition to our fleet as it gives us a small electric bus with a sensible range and operational flexibility. The expertise and experience that has gone into designing this bus is apparent and initial feedback from our drivers shows that they enjoy the experience.”
Charlie Miller, retail sales director for Alexander Dennis, added: “We’re proud to have been chosen to supply the first Enviro100EV for an independent operator to Shuttle Buses. This is a great investment from a respected operator. It's been great to work with the team at Shuttle Buses again – this isn't the first time they have ordered new products to market. To have their trust in us is fantastic and very much appreciated.”
