Alexander Dennis to supply six electric buses to New Zealand

Alexander Dennis will supply six electric buses to Fullers360, commencing the conversion of bus services on New Zealand’s Waiheke Island to a zero emission operation.

To be delivered in mid-2020, Fullers360 subsidiary Waiheke Bus Company will operate the six BYD ADL Enviro200EV on behalf of transport authority Auckland Transport (AT). The company has plans to add a further five electric buses later, cutting out emissions from the entire AT Waiheke Island bus network, which connects communities with Fullers360’s frequent ferries to Auckland.

The battery buses will be built to the new length of 11.6m, recently announced by Alexander Dennis and its partner BYD. The new model maximises the use of available space to offer two additional seats as well as increased legroom. Passengers benefit from full air conditioning, while drivers will enjoy improved handling characteristics thanks to a shorter rear overhang.

Fullers360 Chief Executive Officer Mike Horne says: “With Auckland Transport’s support, Fullers360 and Waiheke Bus Company are proud to lead a significant reduction in road emissions on Waiheke Island. As we revamp our fleet with new electric vehicles, the buses will continue to play an important role in connecting the Waiheke community to Matiatia Wharf and destinations across the island.”

Tony Moore, General Manager of Alexander Dennis New Zealand, says: “This is a fantastic continuation of the work Auckland Transport is doing to reduce emissions across the region as part of its Low Emission Bus Roadmap. Alexander Dennis would like to thank Fullers360 for this vote of confidence in our buses and we look forward to transforming Waiheke Island’s bus services.”

Wing You, BYD’s General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, says: “BYD’s latest iron phosphate battery technology powers reliable electric buses around the world. By combining our chassis with market-leading bodywork from Alexander Dennis, we are able to give Fullers360 and Auckland Transport a pure electric, zero emission bus that exactly meets their requirements.”

The order follows the successful trial of two BYD ADL Enviro200EV across the Auckland Transport network since 2018.

About Alexander Dennis

Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) is part of leading independent global bus manufacturer NFI Group. ADL is a global leader in the design and manufacture of double deck buses and is also the UK’s largest bus and coach manufacturer. ADL offers single and double deck buses under the Alexander Dennis brand as well as Plaxton coaches, with vehicles in service in the UK, Ireland, Europe, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Mexico, Canada and the United States.