Optare in hybrid electric bus deal

BLACKBURN bus maker Optare has signed a deal with a US company that develops drive systems for hybrid-electric powered vehicles.

The hybrid diesel-electric and full-electric drive systems and chargers, from California-based Enova Systems, will be used on two new Optare transit buses.

They use lithium ion batteries and include integrated on-board or stationary battery charging systems.

Mark Houlton, Optare’s product development  director, said: ‘We believe Enova’s hybrid and electric drive technologies and vehicle integration expertise provide an excellent platform on which to develop these two next generation low emission, alternative energy vehicles.

“The performance of Enova’s drive systems combined with Optare’s state-of-the-art light weight design, award winning styling and proven operational efficiency will provide our customers and passengers with low emission, fuel efficient vehicles that excel in comfort, technology, and value.”

AIM-listed Optare was formed in July following a £16m reverse takeover of Leeds-based Optare Group by Blackburn bus maker the Darwen Group.