The StreetDeck hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) double-decker bus is one of 28 such vehicles delivered to Translink in recent months, and is part of a five-year agreement between the two companies to introduce new technology into the fleet.
The StreetDeck HEV is equipped with a Daimler OM934 Euro VI engine and combines Hybrid Electric and Micro Hybrid technologies.
With a passenger carrying capacity of up to 87 (74 seated/12 standing/one wheelchair space or 71 seated/14 standing/one wheelchair), overall length is 10.5m with a width of 2.55m.
Interior features include high back E-leather seats with integral USB points and a wifi system, along with under seat ‘mood’ lighting and LED interior lights. The driver’s area has a KAB 414 seat, electronic power-assisted steering, full camera system and monitor. LED destination displays are situated at the front and rear of the bus.
“The introduction into service of the bus you see on the stand is a result of close co-operation, planning and development and in-service testing with Translink. It has also involved significant research and development input from W-Tech, Wrightbus’s joint technology venture with Queens University Belfast,” said Mark Nodder, Wrights Group chairman and CEO.
“Working within a longer-term framework agreement has allowed all parties to commit to the appropriate levels of investment and the StreetDeck HEV presented at the show demonstrates just what can be achieved from such as partnership arrangement.
“Expect more to come from this approach in the coming years.”
The Wrightbus HEV system was launched in 2016 and is a parallel hybrid system using two motor generator units and a lithium titanate battery to store the energy recovered under braking.
When specified with the Micro Hybrid technology, the system achieves fuel consumption and C02 emission levels which are 34% better than the LEB Euro V baseline.
StreetDeck HEVs are also in operation in Leeds with Stagecoach, First Group in Sheffield and GoAhead in London.