Commercial-duty propulsion specialist Allison Transmission and bus and coach builder Alexander Dennis are to work together to develop efficient, powerful electric buses.
As part of this strategic alliance, Allison’s new ABE Series electric powertrain systems for low-floor bus applications will be introduced with the Foothill Transit launch order for the Alexander Dennis interurban and commuter Enviro500 three-axle double-decker buses in North America. The zero-emission buses, which have the same footprint as a conventional single-decker bus, can carry up to 86 seated passengers.
“Allison has a long history with the bus and transit market utilizing our electric hybrid system. This is the next evolution of electrification in this market, and we are pleased to meet the needs and expectations of our customers,” says David S Graziosi, Allison Transmission president and CEO.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Allison on our first electric double-decker order in North America for Foothill Transit,” adds Robert Davey, president of Alexander Dennis. “As the world’s largest double-decker bus manufacturer, we see an increasing demand for electric buses, which combines the same high-passenger capacity and outstanding comfort that our vehicles are renowned for, with zero-emission technology. Partnering with Allison, and leveraging its technology expertise, is helping us achieve this goal.”
