ARBOC launches its first battery-electric bus Equess CHARGE. Distribution from end 2021
ARBOC launches its first fully accessible, battery-electric low-floor bus concept with the zero-emission Equess CHARGE. The new vehicle harnesses New Flyer EV technology and ARBOC’s proven low-floor platform; expanding accessible zero-emission mobility in North America. The producer made public that Equess CHARGETM prototype is complete and «manufacturing of the 35-foot model will commence early 2021. The […]
ARBOC launches its first fully accessible, battery-electric low-floor bus concept with the zero-emission Equess CHARGE. The new vehicle harnesses New Flyer EV technology and ARBOC’s proven low-floor platform; expanding accessible zero-emission mobility in North America.
The producer made public that Equess CHARGETM prototype is complete and «manufacturing of the 35-foot model will commence early 2021. The first production bus will then undergo testing through the Federal Transit Administration’s Model Bus Testing Program in Altoona, Pennsylvania in 2021, with production for distribution anticipated for Q4 of 2021. The Equess CHARGETM will be distributed exclusively by Creative Bus Sales in the United States, and by Dynamic Specialty Vehicles, Crestline Coach, and Creative Carriage in Canada».
New Flyer technology for ARBOC Equess CHARGETM
ARBOC Specialty Vehicles is a subsidiary of NFI Group. Available in 30-foot and 35-foot models, the Equess CHARGETM builds on ARBOC’s Equess transit bus platform, and utilizes the in-field electric vehicle technology from sister company New Flyer.
The ARBOC Equess CHARGETM offers battery technology made in America by XALT, Siemens electric motors (highest torque available for steep grade cities) with efficient regenerative energy recovery, and charging infrastructure compliant with industry standards.
With no steps throughout the bus, a spacious 39” entrance door opening, and a superior entry ramp ratio for passengers with mobility assist devices, the Equess platform offers an enhanced level of accessibility, the producer points out. The Equess CHARGETM features a carrying capacity of up to 33 seated passengers and six wheelchair passengers.
ARBOC Equess CHARGETM with 437 kWh battery
Batteries are placed on the roof of the vehicle and in a rear compartment. Extended range configurations allow for up to 437 kWh battery capacity with anticipated transit ranges of approximately 230 miles on a single charge, the group says.
The Equess CHARGETM will feature the Siemens ELFA 3 direct drive motor and a roof-mounted energy storage system compromised of 4-5 strings of batteries (dependent on bus length), with each string housed in an IP67 (weather tight) enclosure. The Equess CHARGETM also includes a roof-mounted battery thermal management system, Siemsn inverter rack assemblies (with 702 volts primary and 460 volts secondary), Parker Vansco electric controls and multiplexing, and will be compatible with a depot charger with a common CCS Type 1 plug.
1,900 e-buses from NFI in North America
“Providing innovative transit solutions for over 90 years, NFI is leading the zero-emission evolution with over 1,900 electric buses on the road in the United States and Canada. Today, we expand NFI’s comprehensive suite of sustainable transportation solutions with our Equess CHARGE,” said Doug Minix, General Manager, ARBOC. “With the Equess CHARGE, we continue to lead the industry in low-floor, accessible mobility – providing transportation solutions that improve the environment while delivering a better experience for passengers through spacious entranceways, elimination of steps, superior entry ramp ratio, and a smoother ride.”
