Equipmake, a provider of engineering-driven differentiated electrification technologies, products and solutions across the automotive, truck, bus and speciality vehicle industries, says it has received an initial order for five Zero Emission Drivetrains (“ZEDs”) from South American bus manufacturer Agrale S.A. (“Agrale”).
The ZED is an integrated systems solution which includes Equipmake motors, control systems, inverters, HVAC and battery packs and will be utilised in the construction of five MT17.0e buses for DOTA S.A., the largest bus operator in Argentina.
This follows the successful trial in Buenos Aires of a MT17.0e zero emissions electric bus featuring Equipmake’s proprietary ZED, which resulted in the first electric bus made entirely in Argentina going into operation in Buenos Aires, announced last week.
This order further strengthens the Company’s forward order book, supporting its emphasis of securing components and drivetrain business.
Ian Foley, CEO, Equipmake said: “We are delighted to receive an initial order from Agrale for five Zero Emission Drivetrains following the successful trial of the pioneering MT17.0e electric bus in Buenos Aires.
“We have been working with Agrale for six years on the development of zero emission busses for the South American market and this initial order represents the exciting next phase in our expanding relationship.”
Edson Ares Sixto Martins, CEO, Agrale S.A. added: “Agrale’s decision to utilise Equipmake’s Zero Emission Drivetrains for these initial five buses is a result of the excellent relationship we have with the Company and the high quality of its technology.
“We are incredibly proud to be moving forward together in, what we believe is, an important partnership to bring electric buses to the streets of South America.”
The MT17.0e pairs Equipmake’s HTM 3500 motor – which delivers 3,500Nm of torque at 1,000rpm and a peak power output of 400kW, aseamlessly integrated into the prop shaft without the need for a separate transition – with a Semikron SKAI inverter.
Optimised for dependable daily service, the comprehensive package features a state-of-the-art 318kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of delivering up to 155 miles (250km) of range and effortlessly recharged in the depot in 5-7hrs via a CSS2 DC charging point.
Equipmake’s ZED is a modular and scalable electric drivetrain solution, its versatility making it applicable to both single and double-deck applications, across new buses and for repowering of existing vehicles.
The technology features Equipmake’s in-house developed electric motor, inverter, and power electronics, which are combined with the latest lithium-ion batteries.
One of the most innovative and important features of the ZED is its patented, ultra-efficient thermal management system, which maintains the battery pack, motor and inverter at an optimal temperature, therefore maximising vehicle range.
An advanced water-glycol cooling circuit brings an additional benefit by providing interior heating during cold conditions with captured thermal energy. Once the battery has been depleted following a duty cycle, it can be recharged at the depot via a CCS DC charging point.
Equipmake’s revolutionary technology has clear and proven advantages, with 90 tonnes of CO2 being saved by repurposing the existing chassis and body, rather than producing an entirely new double deck bus.
Additionally, each conversion costs less than half the price of a new electric bus, and with most buses in service for more than 14 years, operators can make significant savings by repowering their buses halfway through its operational life cycle.
