ELECTRIC BUS CONVERSIONS WITH JOE TIGHE, KLEANBUS | EVERYTHING EV PODCAST

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This episode of the Everything EV Podcast features Joe Tighe of Kleanbus, a company specializing in converting diesel buses to electric. Tighe explains the company's mission to combat urban air pollution by replacing diesel buses, highlighting that 97% of buses are still diesel and new replacements take over 30 years. He details his career transition from finance to environmental initiatives, inspired by his son, and emphasizes the tangible impact of each conversion, saving thousands of liters of diesel annually. The conversion process is challenging, requiring expertise and a focus on software and packaging. Kleanbus differentiates itself by not designing batteries or motors, instead integrating components from other suppliers and focusing on optimizing energy storage for specific duty cycles. They aim to use the minimum necessary battery capacity, avoiding range anxiety through opportunity charging. While still in early stages with a demo bus, Kleanbus is in talks for pilot schemes and can convert a bus in one to two weeks. Tighe stresses the importance of repowering existing buses as a cost-effective alternative to new electric buses, enabling fleet operators to finance the transition. He also touches on the complexity of government understanding and support for this sector, advocating for infrastructure funding. The long-term vision includes expanding to HGVs and other heavy vehicles, and scaling globally through local manufacturing partnerships.