Single-decker electric bus trial in Coventry

A single-decker electric bus is being trialled on roads in Coventry over the coming weeks.

National Express Coventry said the single deck Volvo BZL Electric demonstrator can carry up to 75 passenger, and is operating on routes between Coventry city centre, University Hospital and Wilson’s Lane.

Over 140 of their double decker buses are already fully electric. 

The vehicle features air conditioning, heating and seatback USB chargers.

Antony Goozee, bus strategy and commercial director for National Express, said: “Buses are the most used form of transport in Coventry and the wider West Midlands. Not only do our services play a key role in keeping people connected, they are also critical to driving down harmful emissions."

He added: “Getting more people to ditch their cars and switch to travelling by bus is vital to tackling climate change and we’re proud to be leading the charge in offering sustainable transport choices in Coventry, with all 140 of our electric double decker buses producing zero-emissions at the tailpipe.'

The single deck bus a four-battery configuration offering a total power output of up to 376kWh. It is being charged at the operator’s depot overnight using a 40kW DC mobile charger, provided by Volvo.

The vehicle’s regenerative braking system also enables some of the energy that would otherwise have been lost when the bus is decelerating, to be successfully recovered as free and clean energy to help power the vehicle.