NFI Group Inc. is introducing its first zero-emission, three-axle double-deck bus to the North American market.
The Enviro500EV CHARGE is the all-electric version of the best-selling double-deck bus produced by NFI subsidiary Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), according to the company.
“The Enviro family is the world’s best-selling double-deck bus, with over 18,000 sold around the globe,” said Paul Davies, President and Managing Director of ADL, during a June 10 online presentation unveiling the vehicle. “Today we add a milestone as we unveil our first-ever battery-electric, three-axle, high-capacity double-deck bus designed specifically for the North American market.”
NFI features
The 45-foot Enviro500EV CHARGE offers panoramic views, low-floor entry, reclined seating, overhead reading lights and air vents, USB ports, and Wi-Fi and multimedia capability. It has a passenger capacity of up to 82 seats, including 53 on the upper deck.
It also features several industry firsts, including full independent front suspension for a smoother and more comfortable ride, and an integrated electric drive system tailored to the requirements of North American transit agencies.
Its design includes a well-lit staircase with handrails, wide entrance and wide exit doors, a 1-in-6 mobility ramp, unobstructed aisles with handrails, mobility devices, and fully flat flooring through to the rear seating, ensuring accessibility.
The Enviro500EV CHARGE forms part of NFI’s recently unveiled line of zero-emission buses and coaches. The CHARGE lineup includes New Flyer’s Xcelsior CHARGE NG and Xcelsior CHARGE H2, MCI’s J4500 CHARGE and D45 CRT LE CHARGE, and the ARBOC Equess CHARGE.
Testing set later this year
The Enviro500 EV CHARGE is Buy America-compliant, and Altoona testing is scheduled to start later this year.
The Enviro500 EV CHARGE marks the first launch of an ADL vehicle at NFI’s Vehicle Innovation Center, according to Paul Soubry, President and CEO of NFI.
“When we acquired ADL in May 2019, we knew that ADL’s strong international growth agenda and double-deck bus platform would mean an exciting road ahead — today’s launch brings together both of these elements,” Soubry said. “At NFI, we are leading the evolution to zero-emission mobility — Leading the ZEvolution, as we like to call it — and ADL is a central part of our continued leadership and innovation.”
Related:
MCI unveils its first North American EV luxury coach
