Scottish bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) has partnered with European e-mobility firm BYD to design and assembly the chassis of its electric buses for the UK market.
Full single- and double-decker electric bus chassis assembly will take place at ADL’s UK workshops with on-the-ground support from BYD. The work is planned to commence in the second half of 2021.
Until now, the chassis for the BYD ADL Enviro200EV single deck and BYD ADL Enviro400EV double deck buses were fully built by BYD before being delivered to ADL’s facilities to have their bodywork fitted in the UK.
Frank Thorpe, managing director of BYD UK, said: “This news underpins the fantastic relationship we have with ADL in the UK.
“We have always worked closely to deliver the highest quality products and services, and we are confident that production of complete vehicles here in the UK will bring even greater efficiencies for our customers.
“More importantly this commitment from both BYD and ADL is also a reflection of the acceptance of eMobility from local authorities, bus operators and their passengers.”
The announcement is regarded as a significant step in response to increasing demand for zero-emission vehicles. According to BYD, it further strengthens the partnership’s market position while underpinning jobs in Britain and developing skills in the growing market for clean vehicle technology.
Paul Davies, managing director of ADL, added: “I am delighted that we’re moving our electric bus partnership to this next level and building complete zero-emission buses for the UK market in the UK.
“This ensures that investment in sustainable transport for our towns and cities delivers full economic benefits to communities right across the country.”
Since the companies began working together in 2015, they have produced over 500 electric buses, equating to more the 70% of electric buses introduced across the UK.
Furthermore, the London roll-out has seen over 16 million emission-free miles covered.
