Hitachi Ltd on Wednesday said its battery and charging management software and services were now in use across multiple bus depots as part of its decarbonisation project with FirstGroup PLC.
The Tokyo-based conglomerate announced in November the formation of an equal joint venture with Aberdeen, Scotland-based FirstGroup to drive forward the UK’s shift to electric buses.
Hitachi at the time said: ‘The collaboration, which is part of FirstGroup’s bus fleet and infrastructure decarbonisation programme, will provide batteries for First Bus’s expanding electric bus fleet, helping to make a positive impact on air quality, tackle congestion and improve customer experience.’
Both companies invested £10 million each to purchase 1,000 electric bus batteries.
The agreement further outlined that Hitachi, through its Hitachi ZeroCarbon subsidiary, would provide Charging & Management services for 1,000 electrified buses with a commitment to an additional 500 vehicles beyond 2026.
On Wednesday, Hitachi said seven of First Bus’ depots have now been equipped with its battery and charging management software and services.
‘ZeroCarbon has onboarded over 400 buses across seven First Bus depots, including Leicester, Aberdeen, Bramley, Scotstoun, Norwich, Hoeford and York. This is currently in addition to the 148 buses already under management at the Caledonia depot. The seven depots with the new services play a crucial role in ensuring operations run efficiently, helping streamline operations and overall performance,’ Hitachi explained.
‘Through tariff optimisation, First Bus’ energy consumption is being reduced during peak demand periods, making significant savings on energy costs. Plus, data reports, insights and recommendations from telematics are helping First Bus monitor and extend the battery health
of its fleet.’
Hitachi shares closed 0.1% lower at JP¥3,896.00 each in Tokyo on Wednesday, while FirstGroup shares fell 2.0% to 136.80 pence each on late Wednesday morning in London.
Copyright 2024 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
