LARBERT, Scotland, Jan. 30, 2020 /CNW/ - (TSX: NFI) Alexander
Dennis Limited ("ADL"), a subsidiary of NFI Group Inc. ("NFI"), one
of the world's largest independent global bus manufacturers, today
announced that it has signed a framework agreement with the
Republic of Ireland's National
Transport Authority (NTA) for the delivery of up to 600 Enviro400ER
double deck hybrid buses, capable of running in zero emission mode
for at least 2.5 kilometres. The agreement includes an initial firm
order for 100 buses.
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The single supplier framework agreement covers the purchase of
double deck diesel-electric hybrid buses and will run for up to
five years. ADL was selected in a comprehensive procurement process
in which the company provided the most economically advantageous
offer. The first 100 buses, awarded on a firm contract, are to be
delivered in autumn 2020 and the NTA will be able to exercise
options for a further 500 vehicles to reflect vehicle requirements
over the coming years, representing a significant addition to ADL's
backlog.
The Enviro400ER is a double deck diesel-electric hybrid, capable
of at least 2.5 kilometres continuous electric range with no
exhaust emissions. It utilises the BAE Systems Series-ER hybrid
system with a 32kWh next-generation lithium-ion battery energy
storage system that can be charged externally via a plug-in
connection, meeting the requirements of the European Union's Clean
Vehicles Directive.
In addition to its continuous zero tailpipe emissions range, the
Enviro400ER switches off its diesel engine at low speeds during
approach to and departure from stops and when stationary.
The buses will be 11.0 metres long and will have City style
bodywork which has been adapted to suit requirements in the
Republic of Ireland. The first 100
buses will seat 66 passengers and will have separate spaces for
wheelchair users and passengers travelling with buggies. The
framework agreement provides the opportunity to adjust the
specifications of further vehicles to suit other operating
requirements.
Alexander Dennis Chief Executive
Colin Robertson comments: "We are
delighted to have been chosen by Ireland's National Transport Authority for the
supply of up to 600 clean buses. Our Enviro400ER electric range
hybrid bus will reduce emissions and passengers will love the
smooth journey experience, while drivers are bound to enjoy a great
working environment in its spacious cab. This order confirms our
strategy of leading the market with the widest range of low and
zero emission buses, enabling us to offer the right vehicle for
each requirement."
About NFI
With 9,000 team members operating from more than 50 facilities
across ten countries, NFI is a leading independent global bus
manufacturer providing a comprehensive suite of mass transportation
solutions under brands: New Flyer® (heavy-duty transit buses),
Alexander Dennis Limited (single and double-deck buses), Plaxton
(motor coaches), MCI® (motor coaches), ARBOC® (low-floor cutaway
and medium-duty buses), and NFI Parts™. NFI buses and motor coaches
incorporate the widest range of drive systems available including:
clean diesel, natural gas, diesel-electric hybrid, and
zero-emission electric (trolley, battery, and fuel cell). In total,
NFI now supports over 105,000 buses and coaches currently in
service around the world. NFI common shares are traded on the
Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol NFI. News and information
are available at www.nfigroup.com, www.newflyer.com,
www.mcicoach.com, www.arbocsv.com, www.alexander-dennis.com, and
www.nfi.parts.
About Alexander Dennis
Alexander Dennis Limited ("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 vehicles under the brands of Alexander
Dennis and Plaxton, and has over 31,000 vehicles in service
in the UK, Europe, Hong Kong, Singapore, New
Zealand, Mexico,
Canada and the United States. Further information is
available at
www.alexander-dennis.com.
SOURCE NFI Group Inc.