ABC, Lightning eMotors Repowered Coach Debuts in San Francisco

ABC Companies delivered its first-ever repowered diesel-to-electric motorcoach to one of Silicon Valley’s largest battery-electric fleet commuter operators.  

Together with its industry-leading partner, Lightning eMotors, the company has achieved a successful proof-of-concept — creating a cost-effective, sustainable path to EV fleet adoption via a proprietary ZEV Repower approach.

“Similar to the many repower programs ABC has completed using updated diesel engines, this is simply the next evolution of a robust process we have used many times before,” said Roman Cornell, president and chief commercial officer of ABC Companies. “The importance of this milestone is to help owners discover a significantly more affordable option that repurposes existing assets in a timely, cost-effective way. We believe it’s a really novel approach to carbon neutrality, that’s available to them right now.”

As an authorized Lightning eMotors exclusive partner and certified Lightning eMotors zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) repower kit installer, ABC can provide a full range of motorcoach zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) repower options, as well as repower for many popular shuttle vans and cutaway applications including the Lightning Ford Transit passenger van, E-450, and F-550 chassis.

The first project consisted of a 2012 Van Hool T2145, which was converted to full-battery electric capability with collaboration between ABC and Lightning eMotors. The repowered motorcoach can be seen cruising throughout South San Francisco as it provides employee commuter shuttle service in the area. With a range up to 200 miles, the repowered coach provides riders with the ultimate passenger experience offering clean, quiet, zero-emissions transport to their workplace, while taking numerous cars off the road.

Originally posted on Metro Magazine