Supporting Belgian bus operators with electrification
Discover how Zenobē is supporting Belgian bus operators with electrification with nearly 70 electric buses across multiple depots.
Arriva Brixton
Fitting 22 electric buses into a space-constrained former tram shed
c.2,064 tonnes
of CO2 saved from entering the atmosphere per year*
c.552kg
of NOx saved from entering the atmosphere per year*
*This number was updated on 10/12/24, in-line with our most up-to-date reporting methodology.
Zenobē helped Arriva transform their Brixton depot, a space-constrained former tram shed built in the 1920s, into a fully electrified home for a fleet of 22 buses. Our purpose-designed DC charging solution freed up seven additional parking spaces that a traditional system would have taken up, while a fully financed battery managed service removed the technology risk for Arriva.
The challenge
Arriva came to Zenobē looking to electrify their Brixton depot for their new fleet of 22 electric buses. A former tram shed built in the 1920s, the space was very limited, and the roof was unable to support overhead reels or pantograph charging systems. This meant that by using a traditional charging solution, Arriva would lose seven parking spaces, restricting their possible bus service.
The limitations of the space meant that not all vehicles could be charged overnight at the same time. The shortened charging windows and lack of space was a challenge that needed a solution.
The solution
We solved the space and charging issue, with a purpose designed system that included Direct Current (DC) power and slim line chargers. The slim line chargers proved ideal for the job and meant the Brixton depot could run their full daily service with 22 fully charged buses available each morning.
To reduce Arriva’s ongoing power grid connection costs, we designed our smart charging software to optimise the daily charging regime.
We also removed any battery replacement risk for Arriva by providing a fully financed battery managed service for the 22 buses, meaning each bus was guaranteed to have a fully functional battery on board for the next 15 years. We also financed the charging infrastructure so that Arriva could spread the cost.
The outcome
Zenobē’s bespoke, space-saving solution created seven additional e-bus parking spaces at the depot. A smart charging strategy helps reduce ongoing connection costs and optimise fleet charging, while Zenobē’s financing of 22 vehicle batteries removed the battery technology risk for Arriva. Zenobē also financed the charging infrastructure, allowing Arriva to spread the cost.
" We're proud to have partnered with Arriva and found solutions to several constraints to electrify the Brixton depot. The 22 e-buses in operation are now helping to clean the local air as well as helping to tackle climate change. "
Steven Meersman
Zenobē Co-founder and Director
" We really enjoyed partnering with Zenobē, they brought great teamwork and real innovative insights to our flagship Brixton depot electrification. The project has given us a proven method to deliver our wider commitment to deliver a sustainability agenda, but also improving our operational efficiency across UK Bus. "
Andy Whitehouse
Engineering, Safety & Improvement Director,
Arriva UK Bus
Arriva UK Bus
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