New Flyer of America Inc. has launched its next generation battery-electric Xcelsior CHARGE NG heavy-duty transit bus, built on its Xcelsior platform.
The Xcelsior CHARGE NG incorporates high-energy batteries that extend the range up to 13%, advanced battery packaging for easier install and maintenance, and a new lightweight electric traction drive system with up to 90% energy recovery.
“The Xcelsior CHARGE NG harnesses the best technology on the market. It includes a streamlined design that reduces maintenance, increases energy density and improves energy recovery while significantly reducing weight — offering a lighter, more energy efficient and longer-range electric bus,” said Chris Stoddart, president of New Flyer and MCI.
New Flyer, which has a production plant in Alabama, produces its own batteries in its bus production facilities. The new battery packaging developed by the company utilizes a single waterproof enclosure design, offering weight reduction and simpler maintenance while decreasing the number of parts by 90%. Its streamlined approach also allows technicians to simply “plug in” or “unplug” individual battery packs, significantly reducing bus downtime and allowing for easy replacement as needed.
The high-energy, long-range batteries use an active liquid cooling system to maintain temperature and respond to power needs. They also are better insulated, lending optimal temperature maintenance and prolonging the battery life. Also, the Siemens ELFA 3 traction system delivers up to 90% energy recovery and weighs 69% less than the ELFA 2, allowing greater passenger capacity and lending more efficient design through compact inverters and embedded drive controls.
“Millions of people count on us every day, whether for reaching their destinations or expecting the highest quality from our technology. This is why, alongside vehicle technology advancements, we have evolved our manufacturing and field services processes to ensure a safe, reliable, scalable approach to be ready for tomorrow’s growing electric bus demand today,” said Jennifer McNeill, vice president of public sector sales and marketing for New Flyer.
NFI Group Inc., parent company of New Flyer of America Inc., has five transit bus manufacturing facilities in North America, with one located in the South in Anniston, Alabama. The company’s 30,000-square-foot Vehicle Innovation Center is also located in Anniston, and is America’s first innovation lab for advanced bus technology.
