Allison Transmission, a global manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty fully automatic transmissions and a supplier of commercial vehicle propulsion solutions, including electric hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems, recently announced its partnership with IndyGo, the Indianapolis Transportation Corporation, where Allison will supply its next generation electric hybrid propulsion solutions for transit buses as part of a 27-unit bus procurement.
The Allison H 40 EP will be paired with the Cummins B6.7 in 24 of the 27 Gillig buses. In addition, IndyGo, Allison and Cummins are partnering to lead the charge in innovative propulsion solutions by integrating Allison’s revolutionary new electric hybrid propulsion system, eGen Flex into three of IndyGo’s new buses. The eGen Flex Max specified by IndyGo will enable pure electric (engine off) operation for up to 10 miles on any route, at any time, without capital infrastructure investment in charging stations. The eGen Flex system is Allison’s initial product offering under its recently announced eGen portfolio of electric and hybrid electric propulsion solutions.
“By integrating eGen Flex-equipped buses into their fleet, IndyGo has demonstrated to our community that they are committed to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing the quality of life in our community, protecting the environment, and minimizing their total cost of ownership,” said Rohan Barua, Allison Transmission VP of North America sales. “We are very pleased to continue our long-term partnership with IndyGo and look forward to the innovation this collaboration will deliver to our community.”
According to the company, the eGen Flex system is capable of improving fuel economy by up to 25% versus a conventional diesel bus, and it has the ability to operate accessories such as air conditioning and electric heat at their optimal efficiency with clean and quiet electric power. Moving these accessories to electric power also reduces the strain on the engine. These capabilities combine to reduce fuel consumption and maintenance costs. The eGen Flex can also eliminate engine emissions and noise while loading and unloading passengers, in dense pedestrian areas, and in zero emission zones and bus depots, enhancing quality of life. The electric vehicle operation in zero emission zones and bus depots through the use of geo-fencing reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, helping to protect the environment.
“This hybrid powertrain is truly a testament to the technical expertise, product knowledge, and innovation of three great Indiana companies coming together for a common purpose,” said Cummins’ Premlata Poonia, GM North America bus business. “Cummins customers depend on innovation to power their success. The successful integration of technologies offered by Allison Transmission and Cummins, Inc., two great Hoosier companies, will help IndyGo achieve this success while minimizing their environmental footprint here in Indianapolis.”
“This partnership with Allison lays the foundation for future collaboration as we jointly advance clean air propulsion and emphasizes our commitment to a clean fleet to improve the greater Indianapolis community and reduce our carbon footprint. IndyGo is in the business of moving people and the decision to choose Allison electric hybrids directly aligns with IndyGo’s mission in providing safe, reliable and accessible mobility options to Marion County,” said Inez Evans, IndyGo president and CEO.
