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Equipmake Signs Electric Bus Repower Fleet Deal With Golden Tours
Equipmake has secured a new contract with Golden Tours to convert ten Volvo B5 London tour buses from diesel to electric. This partnership will see the buses repowered using Equipmake’s Zero-Emission Drivetrain (ZED) technology, aiming to reduce emissions and enhance sustainability in the capital’s sightseeing services.
Golden Tours, established in 1984, specialises in London sightseeing and UK tourism. The company offers high-quality tours around the capital and day trips to locations such as Stonehenge and Bath. It is also a preferred partner of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and has an established partnership with the globally renowned Gray Line Association.
This contract follows an initial £2 million order in February, illustrating the scaling of customer relationships as Equipmake delivers its products. Ian Foley, CEO of Equipmake, commented on the contract: "Golden Tours is a leading tour and activity company in London and across the UK, and I am pleased to announce it has followed its February order with another substantial commitment for Equipmake-repowered buses."
Foley added that this new contract reflects an increasing move in the sector towards sustainable operational alternatives. Equipmake’s bus repowering provides an economically compelling alternative to purchasing new electric vehicles, supporting Golden Tours in making its fleet sustainable.
Mikesh Palan, Managing Director at Golden Tours, stated: "By extending our relationship with Equipmake, Golden Tours is ensuring its operations are as sustainable as possible. We offer bus services to the UK’s most famous and iconic locations, and by partnering with Equipmake, we will enhance our services for thousands of passengers a day."
Palan highlighted the advantages of Equipmake’s Zero-Emission Drivetrain, noting its cost, sustainability, and efficiency benefits. He expressed enthusiasm about bringing these electric buses into service and continuing to prioritise sustainability in their business strategy.
Equipmake’s ZED technology is a modular and scalable repowering solution suitable for both single and double-deck applications. It features an in-house developed electric motor, inverter, and power electronics combined with the latest lithium-ion batteries.
A key feature of the ZED is its patented thermal management system, which maintains optimal temperatures for the battery pack, motor, and inverter. This system maximises vehicle range and provides interior heating during cold conditions using captured thermal energy.
Once depleted following a duty cycle, the battery can be recharged at the depot via a CCS DC charging point. The technology offers clear advantages, including saving 90 tonnes of CO2 by repurposing existing chassis and body rather than producing new buses.
Each conversion costs less than half the price of a new electric bus. With most buses in service for over 14 years, operators can achieve significant savings by repowering their buses halfway through their operational life cycle.
Equipmake expects to commence delivery of these ten repowered buses over the coming months. This initiative aligns with global efforts to transition from conventional fossil-fuelled powertrains to zero-emission alternatives.
About Equipmake
Equipmake is a UK-based engineering specialist developing electrification products for automotive, aerospace, bus, coach, and off-highway industries. The company produces high-performance electric motors, complete EV drivetrains, and ultra-fast power electronic systems.
Equipmake offers bespoke R&D solutions alongside proprietary technology such as an ultra-compact, lightweight high-performance spoke motor. The company has built a significant pipeline of opportunities as demand for electric vehicles increases globally.
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