A New Charge From New Flyer

New Flyer of America Inc. has introduced the next generation of its battery-electric heavy-duty transit bus, the Xcelsior Charge.

New Flyer first revealed its battery-electric Xcelsior design in 2011, unveiled a prototype in 2012, and delivered the first bus in 2014. Over the past five years, the company said it conducted intensive research, development and testing to improve the design, performance and technological advancement of the battery-electric Xcelsior bus, which is now introduced as the Xcelsior Charge, available in 35, 40 and 60 ft. articulated bus rapid transit models. 

The Xcelsior Charge builds on the existing Xcelsior transit bus platform, with extended range battery technology made in America, electric motors with efficient regenerative energy recovery, high torque capability for steep grade cities such as San Francisco and Seattle, and charging infrastructure compliant with industry standards.

“At New Flyer of America we’re working hard to provide transit authorities and their passengers with more attractive transportation options that they can feel good about,” said Wayne Joseph, President of New Flyer of America. “We’re committed to supporting healthy communities through manufacturing leading zero-emission bus technology in America.”

The vehicle incorporates energy storage batteries from XALT Energy and A123 system, with battery configurations available for long-range depot charging and on-route high power charging. The batteries drive Siemens ELFA2 electric motor-generators that provide direct drive to the wheels through MAN single reduction rear axles. Standard or high gradeability motors are available.

The Xcelsior Charge extended range configurations allow for up to 600 kWh battery capacity obtaining realistic transit ranges of over 200 miles on single charge based on Federal Transit Administration test protocols, the company said.