Twenty-eight ageing electric double-decker buses operating in London are undergoing extensive refurbishment, including replacement batteries and electric drivetrains, before returning to service with transport operator Metroline, according to Busplaner.
Wrightbus subsidiary NewPower is handling the modernisation of the Optare Metrodecker EV fleet at its facility in Bicester. The project will replace ageing electric components with updated systems designed to extend the buses’ operational life.
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German drivetrain specialist Driventic will supply its VEDS electric drivetrain system, while CATL will provide the replacement batteries. The refurbishment also includes new axles and climate control systems.
Driventic Supplies Electric Drivetrain Technology
Driventic’s VEDS system is an electric direct-drive solution developed for commercial vehicles, including buses, trucks and off-highway equipment.
The company became independent after being separated from Voith’s drivetrain technology division. Based in Heidenheim, Germany, it focuses on electric and conventional propulsion systems.
Its electric drivetrain portfolio includes the VEDS, VEDS 1.5 and VEDS 2.2 systems, with the latest version introduced in 2026.
The heavy-duty VEDS configuration delivers 320 kW of continuous power for 30 minutes and 3,100 Nm of torque, making it suitable for single-decker buses, articulated buses and double-deckers. A medium-duty version offers 240 kW of continuous power and 2,850 Nm of torque.
Extending the Life of London’s Electric Bus Fleet
The refurbishment will allow Metroline to return 28 existing electric double-deckers to operation with updated propulsion and supporting systems rather than relying entirely on new vehicle purchases.
The project also highlights the role of specialist suppliers in extending the service life of electric commercial vehicles through battery and drivetrain replacement.