Best Practices: Lessons from the Future - What U.S. Transit Agencies Can Learn from the U.K.’s Electric Bus Rollouts

While the U.S. counted for nearly three percent of new bus registrations as zero emissions in 2023, the U.K.’s share was 63 percent for the same period. Drawing on insights and data from work with U.K. and global transit authorities and operators, these three key strategies have been identified for successfully transitioning to a zero-emissions fleet, regardless of which side of the road is used: workforce training, vehicle charging and emerging financing models for electric fleets. 

Improving efficiency through new driver behaviors 

In the U.K., targeted workforce training, triggered by regular feedback cycles, led to a noticeable reduction in energy consumption across the electric bus fleet. For example, harsh braking and rapid acceleration contribute to higher energy usage. By analyzing driver behavior data, operators have trained their drivers to smoothen their driving habits for electric vehicles. 

Regular driver reviews ensure that the cycle of improvement continues. U.K. operators conduct these using real-time and historical vehicle data. With insights from their technology platform or solutions partner, they can discuss driving behavior, its impact on vehicle performance and ways drivers can optimize vehicle energy efficiency. This workforce-focused approach upskills staff in best practices, reduces energy consumption while extending battery lifespan and improves the overall rider experience. 

By embedding data-driven insights into training programs, operators on both sides of the Atlantic can foster a culture of efficiency and adaptability, ensuring long-term benefits as fleets expand. 

Reducing energy costs through smart charging 

Knowing when to charge electric buses for the best electricity rates can be a challenge. Smart charging, optimizing charging schedules based on historical fleet data and regional energy costs has been a game changer for U.K. transit operators. 

By working with original equipment manufacturers, agencies can develop smart charging strategies that help minimize energy costs while ensuring fleet uptime. Charging is scheduled for off-peak hours—when electricity is cheaper—and around day-to-day operational needs, achieving substantial cost savings for U.K. transit authorities. One charging depot saved the equivalent of nearly https://www.route-one.net/opinion/electric-vehicle-charging-what-to-consider-now-and-for-the-future/$37,000 per month on electricity. Smart charging reduces overall operational costs and can make the total cost of ownership (TCO) more attractive than diesel alternatives. 

Financing with battery residual value 

Financing zero-emission fleets poses unique challenges, yet innovative approaches have shown how to mitigate costs effectively. One strategy involves factoring https://www.zenobe.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/US_Battery-Lifecycle-Management_Transit.pdfbattery residual value (RV) into financing models. By accurately assessing the remaining value of a battery at the end of its first life, operators can lower TCO and make electric fleets more economically viable.  

A managed battery service with guaranteed performance levels exemplifies this approach. Throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle, battery performance data is collected and analyzed. Operators can then optimize battery usage and schedule replacements at the most cost-effective intervals. Additionally, the battery’s second-life potential—i.e., repurposing it for stationary energy storage at a transit depot—adds further value to the investment. 

Dashboards with real-time monitoring and analytics are critical to success with this model. U.K. operators using the appropriate tools have access to detailed, up-to-date insights into battery performance, charge levels and overall fleet health for informed decision making, reduced risk and maximizing returns on their investments. 

A helpful resource for more on this topic is CALSTART’s Innovative Financing Toolkit, a reference guide based partly on Zenobē’s experience. 

Mini case study: Coventry’s all-electric bus fleet 

Coventry, England, offers a compelling example of data-driven electrification. As the first U.K. city to transition its entire 140-vehicle bus fleet to all electric, Coventry partnered with Zenobē to implement smart charging and battery management. By installing solar PV panels on unused depot roof space, an onsite microgrid was created, and the right-sized solution and grid connection ensured reliable service levels while optimizing energy costs and vehicle performance. With real-time data insights, Coventry set a benchmark for other cities aiming to electrify their transit systems.  

Conclusion 

The transition to zero-emissions transportation is a complex yet essential journey for transit authorities worldwide. U.K. transit agencies’ experience offers valuable lessons on leveraging data-driven strategies to improve efficiency, reduce energy costs and optimize financing. By focusing on driver behavior, adopting smart charging practices and incorporating battery residual value into financial models, operators can achieve sustainable and economically viable electrification while reducing risk. 

Coventry’s success underscores the transformative potential of these strategies and offers a blueprint for other cities to follow. As transit authorities continue innovating and sharing best practices, the path to a cleaner, more efficient future becomes increasingly clear.