Electric Vehicle Scheme for National Express
The client committed in 2020 to never buy a diesel bus again and to operate a fully zero emission bus fleet by 2030
National Express West Midlands is the major operator of local bus services in the region with the largest fleet of buses in the UK (over 1,400) – including a significant fleet of zero-emission vehicles.
It is part of Mobico Group, a leading international shared mobility provider of bus, coach and rail services, employing 46,000 people in 12 countries across the UK, North America, continental Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.
The project in question was the installation of a full fleet of 140 electric vehicles and associated infrastructure, in line with the client’s fleet decarbonisation targets. Difficult to implement with large M&E requirements and lots of moving parts when managing the project lifecycle.
LCMB has successfully managed projects for the client and has a strong understanding of the client’s values and ways of working. The client has past experience of LCMB’s work and the tangible benefits associated with our involvement in projects.
Business challenges
Keeping the depot operational and minimising disruption to allow the continuity of bus services whilst transitioning the infrastructure and fleet to electric. Dealing with increased vehicle quantities over ‘EV introduction, diesel removal’ period, combined with reduced parking space due to live work areas, storage of materials and waste disposal.
Ensuring works are compliant within the restrictions of a live bus depot. Health and safety is a crucial factor due to moving vehicles and engineering works, and as such, the priority was to ensure the health and safety of depot employees and contractors was upheld in tandem.
Maximising the value of the contractor in terms of quality, time and cost.
LCMB solution
Working closely with depot and contractor operatives to ensure the allocation of space to the contractor does not compromise business as usual, but equally ensures minimal hindrance to the project programme. Implementing a just-in-time delivery schedule and a rigorous traffic management plan through collaboration with the contractor and site management.
Regular site visits to keep an on-site presence and continual relationship with depot and contractor operatives.
Benefits
- Cost minimisation
- Time efficiency
- Quality control
- Environmental benefit of the implemented EV solution and a step towards their NZC targets
LCMB has successfully managed similar projects for the client and has a strong understanding of the client’s values and ways of working. Alongside this, the client has experience of LCMB’s work and the tangible benefits associated with our involvement in projects.
The client also enjoys working with subject matter experts and receiving tailored and agile support which isn’t possible with larger organisations. It also provides an opportunity to support local businesses and communities in line with their CSR.
