Alexander Dennis have unveiled the first next-generation Enviro400EV battery-electric double decker built to TfL specification.

The Enviro400EV for London is fitted with 472kWh batteries as standard, which the manufacturer is now able to warrant for 14 years or 1 million km, whichever comes first, under normal operating conditions in the capital. This allows the zero-emission bus to cover two consecutive seven-year route contracts without a need for battery replacement, contributing to low total cost of ownership.

The batteries can be fully charged in as little as three hours through a DC plug connection, or even faster with optional roof-mounted connector rails for pantographs. Energy from the batteries powers the Enviro400EV through the heavy-duty version of the Voith Electrical Drive System, which has shown class-leading efficiency of just 0.67kWh/km over the UK Bus Cycle in Zemo Partnership zero-emission bus certification, increasing available range and contributing to the system’s longevity.

Ben Werth, Group Sales & Business Development Director for Alexander Dennis, explained: “For the TfL Enviro400EV, there is a design sweet spot that optimises available energy and therefore range, as well as vehicle efficiency, length, weight and passenger capacity. In addition to detailed route analysis, we have conducted extensive tests with our supply partners at the cell, module, pack and vehicle level, which have shown that 99% of London routes can be fully serviced with our 472kWh battery.

“This is backed by a fantastic 14-year battery warranty that gives TfL-contracted operators peace of mind by covering the full duration of two consecutive route contracts. This means our Enviro400EV for London meets range requirements whilst achieving highly attractive total cost of ownership and providing commonality and serviceability across the wider electric bus fleet.”