Optare has unveiled the next generation Metrodecker and Metrocity all electric buses. Both buses have fully electric heating and can a deliver more than 150 miles on a single charge.
The Metrodecker next generation EV carries more than 94 passengers with an unladen weight of just over 11T and a GVW of only 18T. The Metrocity EV carries up to 60 passengers with an unladen weight of less than 9T and a GVW of 13T.
Optare chief executive Richard Bulter said: 'With the support of our parent company, Ashok Leyland, we continue to make significant investment in our future; not only with the development of new innovative products but also investing in our manufacturing and customer support facilities.
'Here at Optare we recognise that the industry faces many challenges and it's our role to bring creative, innovative solutions both in design and product support that allows operators and local authorities to have low cost of ownership; whilst delivering vehicles that address climate change and deliver cleaner air to our towns and cities.
The new vehicles are the culmination of almost a decade of pioneering electric bus design and development. In 2009 our first single deck electric buses delivered 60 miles on a single charge with diesel heating. An electric double deck was a dream a decade ago'
'We now have a bus that can deliver a full day's zero emission service on a single charge all year round with no impact on capacity'
Optare commercial director Robert Drewery said: 'Optare has been able to deliver a leap forward by building on its EV experience and unique advantage.
'Optare's lightweight monocoque space frame design allows Optare's engineers to integrate the very best components to create electric buses that go further, carry more people and deliver the best possible bottom line for operators without penalising passenger capacity, comfort and appeal.
'Improving efficiency always features highly in the minds of operators but this is imperative on the journey towards zero-emissions'
