Wrightbus Launches New Electric Bus Retrofitting Facility in Bicester

Retrofitting diesel buses with electric powertrains is becoming a lucrative business opportunity, according to Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales. With an estimated 34,000 diesel buses needing conversion or replacement by 2035, the demand for electric bus retrofits is on the rise.

Wrightbus, a Northern Irish company owned by Jo Bamford, has introduced a new sub-brand called Newpower to address this growing market. The company has opened a state-of-the-art facility in Bicester, capable of converting two diesel buses to electric power per week.

The conversion process involves replacing the diesel engine with an electric drivetrain, including four 77kWh battery packs and a Voith electric motor. This setup provides 322bhp and 1770lb ft of torque, making it suitable for buses weighing over 10 tonnes.

In addition to the electric drivetrain, front and rear heat pumps are installed for efficiency, along with extra battery cooling and chassis reinforcements to support the added weight of the battery packs. The converted buses have an average range of 143 miles, with the option to add a fifth pack for extended range up to 178 miles.

While the conversion process reduces passenger capacity slightly, operators can still benefit from lower emissions and operational costs. Wrightbus is also in talks with Transport for London to convert Routemaster buses, potentially helping TfL achieve its goal of an all-electric bus fleet by 2030.

With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Wrightbus is leading the way in transforming traditional diesel buses into eco-friendly electric vehicles. The company’s commitment to providing cost-effective solutions for reducing emissions is paving the way for a greener future in public transportation.