ABC Companies, Proterra join Van Hool for CX45E global debut at Busworld Europe 2019

Oct. 31, 2019
The new vehicle is developed, designed and built exclusively for North American operations.

ABC Companies unveiled its new all electric Van Hool CX45E in October at Busworld Europe 2019 as the only model at the convention to be exclusively designed and built for the North American market.

The zero-emission vehicle utilizes Proterra’s battery system which features a compact robust design, enabling energy density by volume and mass. Efficient energy storage enables improved range capabilities and thermally controlled batteries keep the temperature consistent to maximize lifetime in operating climates.

‘Designed for the future, coming to America - January 2020’ – was the theme used to unveil the new bus, and ABC Companies says it is eager to present this zero-emission model during UMA Expo 2020 in Nashville, Tenn. Like the diesel-powered Van Hool CX45, the CX45E electric bus will integrate a multitude of onboard technologies and passenger and driver amenities including a fully redesigned driver’s area.

“The new CX45E represents an important milestone in our over thirty-year partnership with Van Hool and demonstrates our commitment to delivering advanced technology and innovation to our North American customers,” said Roman Cornell, president and CCO, ABC Companies. “The CX45E offers an ideal solution for North American customers who operate fixed routes and dedicated shuttles, especially in urban and private environments.”

ABC, together with Van Hool and Proterra, will offer proprietary route modelling, which will take into consideration route planning, the environment and how each coach is routinely operated. Modeling and charging infrastructure analysis utilize data gleaned from route simulation, factoring in a host of variables such as charging speed and consumption, hours of operation, charging points, power suppliers and more to determine the right fit for each operation. Through the Proterra Energy™ fleet solutions offering, Proterra’s team can evaluate a fleet’s daily power needs to determine the most fitting chargers to meet route requirements.

ABC also offers after-sale fleet maintenance support programs that are built around each owner’s individual fleet profile and needs. With flexible, scalable maintenance strategies tailored to support highly diverse fleet compositions, the company can service a full spectrum of equipment makes, models and drivetrain platforms. Together with Van Hool and Proterra, ABC anticipates the forthcoming UMA 2020 debut of the Van Hool CX45E all electric bus at ABC Booth #200.