Batteries by Impact in the latest generation of Alexander Dennis electric buses.

Impact Clean Power Technology has unveiled battery systems tailored to the next generation of Alexander Dennis buses, the Enviro100EV and the double-decker Enviro400EV. Production of both vehicle types has already commenced, with deliveries to customers in the UK and Ireland planned for the early months of 2024.

“In response to our partner Alexander Dennis’s expectations, we have developed and delivered a forward-looking battery system based on the new generation of lithium-ion NMC cells. The battery dimensions allowed for their placement within the bus in a way that, for example, increased the overall passenger capacity of the Enviro400EV vehicle by 19%. Furthermore, our battery has been designed to be easily modified over time at both the package and module level, as well as individual cells. In the rapidly evolving battery technology market, we provide users with the ability to modify and incorporate newer technologies throughout the vehicle’s entire lifespan,” said Bartek Kras, Vice President of Impact’s Board.

“The pace of change in our industry is rapid. We are proud of the progress we’ve made in electric buses over the past seven years, as well as our extensive range of low-emission technologies that were available before this era. Now it’s time for us to take zero-emission buses to the next level,” said Paul Davies, President and CEO of Alexander Dennis.

Impact’s battery systems will be used in the latest buses – the next-generation Enviro400EV and Enviro100EV. They will utilize high-strength nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) prismatic cells, which are less susceptible to adverse operating conditions, such as low temperatures. This technology also provides a long-term service life without initial parameter degradation. “One of the elements ensuring the highest level of safety is the method of installation – the batteries are not directly bolted to the vehicle’s floor. Thanks to mechanical isolation, they are protected from twisting and damage caused by stones and other objects that may be encountered on the road.”

The double-decker Enviro400EV will come with 472 kWh batteries as standard, with an option for 354 kWh. In the Enviro100EV small bus, the batteries have capacities of 236 kWh or 354 kWh. Both vehicles can be used for both urban and intercity transport. The Enviro400EV can accommodate up to 98 passengers, and its range on a single charge is 260 miles. In contrast, the Enviro100EV can carry between up to 45 people and can cover 285 miles.

The batteries are mounted inside the chassis and the rear of the vehicle, and under the stairs in the case of the Enviro400EV. Floor-mounted packages are mechanically isolated and not directly attached to the chassis, protecting them from external loads resulting from twisting and impacts that could cause premature damage.

The propulsion system for both vehicle models was provided by our long-term partner, Voith Turbo. “Impact and Voith stand out for their innovation and attention to detail when selecting technological partners for our next generation of buses. Our engineers went beyond finding the best solutions for our customers, as we spent time designing vehicle interfaces that are resilient to future changes and protect these key components, ensuring that the investment of authorities and operators stands the test of time,” said Chris Gall, Group Engineering Director at Alexander Dennis.

If new battery sets are needed during the vehicle’s operation, they will take advantage of the advancements in the performance of subsequent generations of technological advancements without the need for vehicle modifications because package dimensions and interfaces with the vehicle are standardized. The company is already planning the next generation of NMC batteries for Alexander Dennis, which will further extend the operational range of the next-generation Enviro100EV and Enviro400EV buses.