VEV, the electric fleet solutions provider backed by Vitol, is leading an ambitious project in partnership with Stagecoach, one of the UK’s largest bus operators.
The initiative aims to accelerate the transition to an electric bus fleet by constructing high-power charging infrastructure at four strategic depots: Leamington, Nuneaton, Rugby, and Chesterfield.
This effort not only advances sustainability in public transport but also promises significant operational savings and benefits.
Innovative Infrastructure for Electric Buses
The infrastructure developed by VEV includes high-power direct current (DC) charging stations for over 150 electric buses, alongside solar power installations at three depots.
This renewable energy integration will significantly reduce Stagecoach’s reliance on the national grid and is expected to save more than £1 million over its lifespan.
Simultaneously, Stagecoach is piloting a shared charging hub model in Aberdeen, allowing third parties to use the chargers when the buses are out of the depot. If successful, this initiative could expand to other depots in Scotland, adding over 54 additional charging points.
Digital Management with VEV-IQ
To maximise resource efficiency, VEV has deployed its digital platform VEV-IQ, which optimises energy usage and charging schedules at the depots. This tool monitors energy demand in real-time, ensuring buses are ready to operate without compromising efficiency or sustainability.
Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, emphasised the importance of this collaboration:
“Our partnership with Stagecoach marks a milestone in the journey towards more sustainable public transport in the UK. By combining innovative technology with strategic infrastructure, we are creating a cleaner, more efficient bus system that’s ready for the future.”
Global Lessons: Bogotá as a Model
The collaboration between VEV and Stagecoach has also drawn inspiration from international best practices. Recently, Stagecoach representatives visited a large-scale electrification project in Bogotá, Colombia, developed by VEV’s sister company, VGMobility. This system includes over 400 electric buses, 21 DC superchargers with 360 kW capacity, and the VEV-IQ platform to optimise operations.
Claire Miles, CEO of Stagecoach, shared her insights:
“The trip to Colombia was incredibly insightful. Seeing an electrified, clean, and efficient depot in action, alongside the scale of the operation, demonstrated the potential of electrification. We are excited to work with VEV to bring these global lessons to our projects in the UK.”
Impact on Public Transport
This partnership aims not only to electrify fleets but also to redefine how companies operate and manage infrastructure in the era of sustainability. By combining smart charging, solar energy, and advanced digital solutions, VEV and Stagecoach are setting a benchmark for the future of electric buses in Europe.
Projects like this reinforce the UK’s leadership in transitioning to low-emission public transport, paving the way for other cities to adopt cleaner and more efficient technologies.
