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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

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Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...
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Equipmake’s New Electric Conversion for Wrightbus Streetdeck

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Have you heard about Equipmake? They’re a pioneering engineering company focusing on electrification, working across industries like automotive, aerospace, buses and more. Recently, they announced an exciting new electric conversion for the Wrightbus Streetdeck double-decker bus.

Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador)

What’s the Wrightbus Streetdeck?

The Wrightbus Streetdeck, launched in 2014, is has become one of the UK’s favorite double-decker buses. You’ve likely seen them around the likes of Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds. Now, Equipmake has unveiled the latest version of their Zero Emissions Drivetrain for the Streetdeck, promising a superb mix of range, battery life, performance and cost-effectiveness, all while maintaining passenger capacity.

The Tech Behind the Transformation

So, what’s inside this cutting-edge system? Let’s break it down:

  • HTM 3500 Motor: Delivers 3,500Nm of torque and 400kW of peak power.
  • Semikron SKAI Inverter: Ensures smooth, efficient power conversion.
  • 436kWh Lithium-Ion Battery: Provides an impressive range of up to 200 miles.

Cool Features

  • Space-Saving Design: The system fits neatly into the existing bus layout, so no passenger space is lost.
  • Smart Thermal Management: Equipmake’s patented system keeps the battery, motor, and inverter at optimal temperatures, boosting range and even using captured heat to warm the bus interior during cold weather.
  • Quick Recharging: The battery can be recharged at depot charging points once depleted.

Fast and Affordable Conversion

Equipmake can convert a diesel Streetdeck to electric in just three weeks! This means minimal downtime and a quick return to service. Plus, it costs under £200,000 – less than half the price of a new electric bus.

Words from the CEO

Ian Foley, Equipmake’s CEO, shared his enthusiasm, saying,

“The Wrightbus Streetdeck is one of the most popular double deckers on UK fleets and the conversion of these buses will not only have a huge positive impact on local air quality but provide operators with a vehicle with lower running costs and a better experience for passengers and drivers.

“We’ve worked incredibly hard to develop this stand-out electric repower solution for the Streetdeck and the results are sector-leading. Our Zero Emission Drivetrain technology has a crucial role to play in accelerating the transition to a fully electric UK fleet – and we look forward to converting as many of these vehicles as possible in the coming months.”

Environmental and Economic Benefits

  • CO2 Savings: Repurposing the existing bus chassis saves 90 tonnes of CO2 compared to producing a new bus.
  • Cost Efficiency: Each conversion is less than half the price of a new electric bus. With most buses in service for over 14 years, converting them mid-life can result in substantial savings.

Equipmake’s Broader Impact

Equipmake isn’t just focused on buses. They’re also electrifying other vehicles, like fire trucks and airport logistics vehicles, partnering with companies in the US and UK.

Equipmake is leading the way in creating efficient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly electric solutions for the commercial vehicle industry. Keep an eye on them – they’re doing remarkable things!

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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

By on
Image
Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...
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