METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

ABC, Proterra unveil all-electric Van Hool CX45E motorcoach

Uses Proterra’s battery system, which features a compact, robust design enabling energy density, by volume and mass.

October 29, 2019
ABC, Proterra unveil all-electric Van Hool CX45E motorcoach

ABC together with Van Hool and Proterra, will offer proprietary route modelling, which will take into consideration route planning, the environment, and how each coach is routinely operated.

ABC Companies/Van Hool

2 min to read


ABC together with Van Hool and Proterra, will offer proprietary route modelling, which will take into consideration route planning, the environment, and how each coach is routinely operated. ABC Companies/Van Hool

ABC Companies and Van Hool introduced the all-electric Van Hool CX45E motorcoach at Busworld in Belgium, which was the only model exclusively designed and built for the North American market on the show floor.

The zero-emission vehicle utilizes Proterra’s battery system, which features a compact, robust design enabling industry-leading energy density, by volume and mass. Efficient energy storage enables improved-range capabilities and thermally controlled batteries keep the temperature consistent to maximize lifetime in operating climates.

Ad Loading...

“‘Designed for the future, coming to America — January 2020’” — was the theme used to unveil the new bus, and ABC Companies is eager to present this innovative zero-emission model during UMA Expo 2020 in Nashville. Like the diesel-powered Van Hool CX45, the CX45E Electric bus will integrate a multitude of onboard technologies and passenger and driver amenities including a fully redesigned driver’s area.

ABC together with Van Hool and Proterra, will offer proprietary route modelling, which will take into consideration route-planning, the environment, and how each coach is routinely operated. Modeling and charging infrastructure analysis, utilizes data gleaned from route simulation — factoring in a host of variables such as, charging speed and consumption, hours of operation, charging points, power suppliers, and more to determine the right fit for each operation. Through the Proterra Energy™ fleet solutions offering, Proterra’s team of experts can evaluate a fleet’s daily power needs to determine the most fitting chargers to meet route requirements.

ABC also offers after-sale fleet maintenance support programs that are built around each owner’s individual fleet profile and needs. With flexible, scalable maintenance strategies tailored to support highly diverse fleet compositions, the company can service a full spectrum of equipment makes, models, and drivetrain platforms.

More Zero Emissions

thumbnail for 2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory
SponsoredMay 27, 2026

2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory

Searching for the right vehicles, technology, equipment, or services for your public transit or motorcoach operation? This industry guide brings together manufacturers and suppliers from across the transportation market — all in one place. Download it to connect with the companies that help agencies and operators improve mobility, enhance operations, and move their organizations forward.

Read More →
A Heliox charger on KC Metro property

King County Test Heliox Chargers, Keolis Lands California Contract Top Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
ENC's Manufacturing facility
Busby Alex RomanMay 18, 2026

ENC Builds on Legacy with Major Investment, Strategic Reset

Following its 2024 acquisition, ENC is upgrading operations, expanding capacity, and aligning its approach to meet agency demand for reliability and on-time delivery. METRO spoke to John Obert, vice president of transit sales, to find out more.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
King County Metro's bus depot with Schunk Transit pantograph charging infrastructure.

Biz Briefs: King County Metro Taps Schunk Transit Systems for Charging and More

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
Gavel and measures of justice.

American Bus Association Files Lawsuit Against NYC Over Bus Idling Rules

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, challenges the City’s use of its Citizens Air Complaint program.

Read More →
METRO Biz Briefs cover photo

STV Launches Power Practice and More in Biz Briefs

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from SilverRide, Complete Coach Works, and more.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Cover for Part 2 with AC Transit's Cecil Blandon
ManagementMay 8, 2026

Bus Tech Talk: Part 2 with AC Transit's Cecil Blandon

In Part 2 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his maintenance team’s work with various types of vehicle, training, augmented reality, and more.

Read More →
A Waev Gem vehicle with a ramp deployed.

ABC Teams with Waev, Knorr-Bremse in Boston Top Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →
Cover photo for Part 2 with Cecil Blandon
Managementby Alex RomanApril 30, 2026

Bus Tech Talk: Part 2 with AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon

In Part 2 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his maintenance team’s work with various types of vehicle, training, augmented reality, and more.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A WMATA bus underneath a cherry blossom tree
Busby Alex RomanApril 24, 2026

Bus Coalition Leaders Push to Protect Transit Funding in Critical Reauthorization Year

Coalition leaders outline priorities for preserving bus funding, maintaining competitive grants, and ensuring flexibility for transit agencies nationwide.

Read More →