Project Summary

This project will create a cloud-based tool that collects and analyses data, to accelerate the coach industry’s transition to net zero. The system considers route information, historic data, and power availability at depots, and pulls from various online sources to create a customised plan for each operator. Only 1% of newly purchased coaches are currently zero emissions, so the tool is necessary for change.

Project Achievements

The project focussed on the integration and loading of operator data, creating models to analyse usage patterns with Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs), and determining the necessary charging needs. Thanks to its partnership with Connected Places Catapult and the backing of the Catapult program, BluMarbl gained entry to a substantial dataset from over 10 operators. This dataset was instrumental in testing and enhancing the software, bringing it to market readiness. During the project BluMarbl engaged in partnerships with electric vehicle manufacturers Yutong and Irizar, alongside battery specialist Zenobe, to aggregate and provide a valuable knowledge resource for coach operators operating in the United Kingdom. Most notably, this tool has revolutionised the approach by individually modelling each operator, debunking the outdated practice of extrapolating results from a select few larger operators in specific regions. It has levelled the playing field, enabling operators from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations to benefit equally. This has resulted in our tool being used by 6 operators in Scotland to build the business case to apply for funding to buy 15 electric coaches.

Conclusions

We can proudly affirm that our initiative has successfully come to fruition. The development of our online data verification tool is transforming the landscape of coach operators’ transition to zero emissions fleets, making it a more accessible process. This tool, now TRL 4, empowers coach operators by streamlining the upload and analysis of trip data, telemetry, and vehicle performance metrics. It not only considers historical data but also incorporates route specifics, depot power availability, and data from diverse online sources, enabling the creation of tailored transition plans for every operator.

Next Steps

The next steps are to secure the technical architecture behind the platform so that it can scale up and to tweak performance to ensure customer satisfaction. BluMarbl has signed a revenue generating partnership agreement with Zenobe and is in advanced talks for the same with other financiers and manufacturers. BluMarbl is also talking with the RHA (Road Haulage Association) to see if the toolset can be of interest to their membership. BluMarbl has been approached by several operators in England looking to understand how ZE can work for them and will be looking to engage with them presently. We are aiming for subsidy from ScotZeb2 to further develop an operational side to the platform. We also require funding to host the platform and further leverage the industry data we have collected but the source of this has not been identified yet. The TRIG program me has provided us with useful knowledge in scaling up and contacts with policy makers as well as the opportunity to get to market.