VEV Unveils New Electric Bus Depot for Sustainable Transport

Greetings, Net Zero News Community,

In a significant development for sustainable transport, e-fleet solutions provider VEV has successfully completed the electric bus hub at Stagecoach’s Chesterfield depot. This milestone marks a crucial step towards a greener future, as the project is part of a broader initiative that includes the electrification of four depots operated by Stagecoach—ultimately supporting a fleet of 150 electric buses across Chesterfield, Leamington, Nuneaton, and Rugby.

Backed by the energy firm Vitol, VEV has been a key player in this transformative journey. The collaboration with Stagecoach began with a comprehensive analysis of the fleet’s operational needs and power requirements, setting the stage for a detailed electrification strategy. This approach ensured that every aspect of the transition was meticulously planned, from charger installation to staff training, and even ongoing operational support.

The Chesterfield depot is set to see the deployment of 57 electric buses by Spring 2025. This initiative will replace more than two-thirds of Stagecoach’s existing diesel fleet that currently operates in Chesterfield and the surrounding areas of northeastern Derbyshire. The project has received partial funding through the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) 2 scheme, in addition to contributions from both Derbyshire County Council and Stagecoach itself.

The state-of-the-art depot infrastructure at Chesterfield features an impressive array of 27 dual DC 120kW chargers, manufactured by Eko Energetyka. This setup will provide a total of 54 charging sockets, complemented by a substantial 2.5MVA power upgrade to support the new electric fleet.

In a further commitment to sustainability, a solar installation boasting 234kWp is currently being constructed at the site. With rooftop solar panels projected to generate approximately 200MWh of power annually, this renewable energy initiative will significantly reduce costs, providing energy at about half the price of grid electricity. It is anticipated that this integration will save an impressive 48 tonnes of carbon emissions each year while alleviating demand on the energy grid.

VEV’s comprehensive approach to the project began with an in-depth analysis of Stagecoach’s operational data, encompassing running boards, power consumption patterns, and essential business operating requirements. This intelligence was pivotal in crafting a tailored solution that meets the specific needs of the site.

At the heart of this transition is VEV’s smart charging and energy management platform, VEV-IQ. This innovative software enables Stagecoach to implement dynamic load management, optimising power purchasing and ensuring efficient use of resources. By interfacing with bus telematics, the platform provides real-time information regarding vehicle state of charge, location, and range, empowering operators to make informed decisions.

Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The completion of the Chesterfield depot is the first deliverable in our relationship with Stagecoach to support both their strategic and operational goals on fleet electrification. This isn’t just about installing chargers; it’s about providing a complete solution that encompasses fleet analysis, infrastructure, power optimisation, staff training, and ongoing operational support to ensure a successful transition of the bus network to electric vehicles.”

Nakrani further highlighted the significance of the VEV-IQ platform, noting, “Our VEV-IQ platform is the glue that holds this solution together, enabling Stagecoach to optimise their power consumption and reduce costs. There are very few solutions on the market that can deliver this level of sophisticated power management and operational insight.”

Stagecoach’s Asset Management Director, Tony Cockcroft, also shared his thoughts on this landmark project, stating, “Our Chesterfield EV depot marks a significant step forward in our electrification journey. VEV’s support has been crucial in ensuring a smooth transition to electric operations. The sophisticated VEV-IQ platform provides us with the insights and control we need to optimise our fleet operations, make informed decisions about our business, and enable additional revenue generation. We look forward to replicating this success with VEV at our other Leamington, Nuneaton, and Rugby sites.”

This ambitious project not only highlights the commitment of both VEV and Stagecoach to sustainability but also sets a precedent for other transport operators aiming to transition to electric fleets. As cities strive to reduce their carbon footprints and enhance air quality, the electrification of public transport becomes increasingly vital.

The transition to an electric fleet is more than just a technological upgrade; it’s a fundamental shift in how public transport operates. By embracing electric vehicles, Stagecoach is not only reducing its environmental impact but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in public transportation.

As we celebrate this milestone, it is essential to acknowledge the broader implications of such initiatives. The shift towards electric vehicles in public transport is a crucial element in the fight against climate change, contributing to the UK’s net-zero goals. With each electric bus that hits the road, we move closer to a future where clean, sustainable transport is the norm rather than the exception.

In conclusion, the completion of the Chesterfield electric bus hub is not just a local achievement; it is a beacon of hope for the future of sustainable public transport. As more operators follow in Stagecoach’s footsteps, we can anticipate a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and an overall improvement in the quality of urban air. The future of public transport is electric, and projects like these are leading the charge.