Ashok Leyland subsidiary delivers 21 Metrodecker EVs to UK based First York

The fourth-largest manufacturer of buses in the world and 10th largest manufacturer of trucks globally and the second-largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in India, Ashok Leyland subsidiary company Optare PLC has delivered the first of 21 battery-electric Metrodecker EVs to UK-based First York.

The UK-based First York has ordered 107 Metrodecker EVs (electric vehicles) since the launch of the electric bus 18 months ago. Out of 107 first 21, Metrodecker electric buses have been delivered Ashok Leyland said in a statement.

The First York launched the first of the battery-electric Optare Metrodecker EV double-deckers on July 30, it added. The whole batch of 21 will be delivered to by the end of September.

While we look at this electric buses features, it can carry 98 passenger but due to coronavirus pandemic presently the capacity is restricted to maintain social distancing. It has been developed from the prototype by Optare in a partnership with First York and the York City Council, which began three years ago. It can provide a range of 160 miles.  The electric buses are fully built and assembled at an Optare’s factory in Sherburn.

Ashok Leyland MD & CEO Vipin Sondhi said that “We are proud of the progress Optare has been making in developing sustainable solutions for public transport. Optare has the know-how, technology and experience to help cities with reducing emissions from buses,” “Optare continues to be a key piece in our overall strategy to be amongst the Top 10 CV makers globally.”

ABB Power & Ashok Leyland signed MoU to develop e-buses for India

Earlier this year Ashok Leyland has made an announcement that it has signed an MoU with ABB Power to develop e-buses for India. This MoU will develop a pilot electric bus based on the flash-charge technology which allows charging of the battery within seconds.

The joint venture will develop pilot electric bus which is based on ABB’s innovative flash charge technology, TOSA which will charge up the battery in just a few seconds while passengers get on and off the bus. This means electric bus drivers need not worry about charging time as it charges in seconds. It helps to avoid the need to pull the e-bus out of the service for recharging every few hours.

Managing Director, ABB Power Products and Systems India Ltd, N Venu said that “The aim is to provide a zero local emission mass public transportation bus system with high passenger capacity. We are pleased to be working with Ashok Leyland in advancing responsible urban mobility.”

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