Concept design: Demonstrated on a tour bus, tested for a 60 mile range and loaned to two bus operators to trial. The vehicle was driven in city centre conditions for several days whilst the energy use and driving parameters were recorded. This provided key input into the system to be developed in Phase 2. The overall concept is sound and has been validated. Further development will be performed in the phase 2 application.
Market sounding and review: A significant purchase differential exists for both hybrid and fully electric buses. For the hybrid, the electric powertrain in series or parallel with the diesel engine, is an additional cost ensemble. For the electric vehicle, the compression ignition engine is replaced by the electric powertrain but includes a large battery which is expensive. The payback is critically dependent on the fiscal regime, with smaller headways (higher bus frequencies, and long mileages) speeding up the payback period, subject to the battery being of sufficient capacity. To be effective, the evaluation needs to be performed with a particular route portfolio/duty-cycle in mind.
IP management and strategy: There is no barrier to operate for Magtec nor any infringement of third-party intellectual property. An IP assessment of the proposed developments was carried out and knowledge protection and dissemination strategies developed in line with Magtec’s current IP strategies.
Risk assessment and mitigation strategies: A risk assessment and mitigation strategy has been performed and will be proactivity monitored and updated in Phase 2.
Legislative requirements: The legislative requirements of the REBOOT target vehicles were studied which determined the Regulatory Acts affected by the modifications, and thus the need for testing and verification in Phase 2.
Business and Financial Model: Potential business models have been reviewed. A 5 year financial forecast consisting of P&L, balance sheet and cashflow models has also been produced. Value adding partners with unique roles and benefits have also been identified.
