Time: 2024-06-22
Zenob, a key player in electrifying transport fleets, has teamed up with Big Bus Tours to introduce 20 sustainable open-top buses and the necessary charging infrastructure to enhance the sightseeing experience in London. This collaboration marks a significant step towards meeting the increasing demand for eco-friendly tourism options, with data from Booking.com showing that 79% of travelers worldwide prefer environmentally sustainable modes of transport during their vacations.
The partnership involves Zenob financing the e-buses in their maiden retrofit project and offering a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to empower Big Bus to manage their energy costs more efficiently. By repowering Big Bus' existing 10-year-old Ankai diesel buses with a 328 kWh LG Chem Battery and powertrain from Equipmake Limited, the transition from diesel to electric is well underway. Additionally, Zenob has set up 10 temporary Direct Current (DC) chargers at Big Bus's Wimbledon depot, allowing the retrofitted fleet to hit the road in time for the bustling spring and summer seasons, ahead of the local electricity grid upgrade.
The first batch of 10 buses is already operational, with the remaining 10 scheduled to be in service by the end of the year. Steven Meersman, the founder of Zenob, emphasized the company's commitment to delivering cleaner transport solutions for London, catering to the evolving preferences of environmentally conscious travelers. Meersman highlighted the importance of industry leaders like Big Bus embracing electric vehicles not only as a responsible choice but also as a strategic advantage in the market. The focus remains on accelerating the decarbonization of the transportation sector in the UK through innovative initiatives like this collaboration.
Pat Waterman, the Chairman of Big Bus Tours, expressed pride in spearheading the shift towards electric vehicles in the sightseeing sector. Waterman emphasized that their dedication to sustainability goes beyond mere words, as tangible actions are being taken to ensure a cleaner and greener future for customers, future generations, and the planet. The transition to electric open-top buses not only enhances the tourist experience but also sets a new standard for sustainable urban transport in London, serving as a model for other cities to follow. With a strong focus on environmental consciousness and innovation, this partnership between Zenob and Big Bus Tours is reshaping the landscape of sightseeing tours in the capital city.
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