Alexander Dennis to fit GKN Gyrodrives in bus fleet24 November 2014

Bus and coach manufacturer Alexander Dennis(ADL) has signed a deal with GKN Hybrid Power to install its Gyrodrive electric flywheel system in 250 vehicles over the next two years.

ADL will focus initially on the introduction of the low-emission technology to bus fleets in London and Oxford, but the company expects to deploy it further across the UK in the next few years. It will also be working with GKN to develop the technology for international markets.

The Gyrodrive system uses a high-speed carbon fibre flywheel to store the energy generated by a bus as it slows down. Stored energy then powers a GKN EVO electric motor, which helps accelerate the bus back up to speed, generating significant fuel savings, according to the developer.

ADL's Euro6 Enviro400 bus – fitted with the Gyrodrive system – recently achieved Low Carbon Emission Bus Certification, which acknowledges a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and entitles operators to enhanced fuel rebates.

The Gyrodrive system is designed to last for the life of the bus eliminating the need for any battery changes and offering much lower whole-life costs than other hybrid alternatives.

Earlier this year transport operator Go-Ahead Group selected GKN to supply 500 systems for use on buses in cities across the UK, following successful trials in London.

"This alliance with GKN introduces a new dynamic to the marketplace, courtesy of a lower cost solution that provides significant fuel and greenhouse gas reductions, coupled with reliability and durability," says Colin Robertson, ADL's chief executive.

GKN's Gyrodrive technology is being developed for other mass transit markets including trams, construction and agricultural equipment.

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Alexander Dennis Ltd

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