ENC to Debut Axess Battery-Electric Bus at APTA Expo

ElDorado National (ENC) will launch its fully electric Axess bus, a true zero-emissions transportation solution, at APTA Expo at booth 2553, November 8 to 10, in Orlando, Fla.

Available in a 40-, 35- and 32-foot bus lengths, the BEB is built on the proven Axess platform, which has over 20 years of trusted performance and is the only EV bus in the industry that features a zero-corrosion 100% 304-grade stainless steel body structure/composite exterior. As a result, there is no undercoating required, which allows less maintenance and creates a lighter bus. Even in the most demanding and corrosive of environments, the Axess Battery Electric Bus will have no corrosion failure or fatigue, according to the company.

The electric propulsion/battery system is by Cummins Inc., and the electrified accessories include the air compressor, HVAC unit, passenger doors, and power steering. The 40-foot bus can accommodate up to seven batteries, which equals 518kw of energy storage. The bus utilizes the latest generation I/O Controls — G5 multiplex electrical system with their most powerful diagnostic and system monitoring capability yet. Featuring the largest auxiliary electronic tower in the industry, it integrates four adjustable slide-put shelves and an air-conditioning duct dedicated to the compartment, which enhances the longevity of the bus’s electrical components. ENC offers a wide variety of charging options on the BEB, including depot charging with charging port flexibility curbside, street side, and on the front of the bus; pantograph charging for opportunity charging enroute; and inground inductive charging.

ENC has multiple configurations for passenger seating and wheelchair accommodations to meet the exacting needs of its customers. Safety is a core focus in the design and the Axess is the first heavy-duty low-floor bus in the industry to offer FMVSS 208 certified three-point passenger seat belts, a major safety advance in transportation. In addition, ENC was the first mass transit bus manufacturer to introduce front or center door ADA-compliant wheelchair ramps.

Driver visibility and comfort is improved by the largest windshield in the industry, which is angled to deflect the glare of interior lighting and helps to create a quieter bus with less drag driving on the road. The tall windshield and low dash offer greater visibility for drivers of any stature. The ergonomically designed color LED dashboard display offers full diagnostic menu for ease of service.