London Buses Case Study
Welcome to Neutron Fleet
Neutron Fleet Charging
The Neutron London Bus installation project features the deployment of three advanced types of chargers: In-Ground, Overhead, and Cylindrical. All chargers are rapid DC models, fully managed and remotely controlled through our sophisticated software platform, Electron.
This installation is the first of its kind in the UK and EU, underscoring Neutron's commitment to developing and delivering the most innovative and cutting-edge charging solutions to the market.
In-Ground DC Charger
The Neutron Fleet In-Ground charger is designed with space optimisation in mind, making it ideal for locations like bus depots where maximising parking space is crucial. When not in use, the charger remains concealed, allowing for efficient use of parking areas without disrupting traffic flow or the existing operational setup.
Overhead DC Charger
The Neutron Fleet Overhead charger is engineered to maximise parking capacity at depots, where space efficiency is essential. These chargers provide a straightforward and accessible charging solution, especially in environments where space-saving and ease of use are critical for public transport, fleet, and infrastructure-grade EV systems. Fully remote-controlled, the chargers conveniently drop down to plug into your EV, combining efficient use of space with seamless operation.
Neutron Cylindrical DC Charger
Our Cylindrical chargers feature a sleek and compact design that minimises their footprint, making them ideal for installations where space is limited. This design allows for simpler, less intrusive setups while ensuring ease of use and functionality for both drivers and fleet operators. The chargers deliver efficient performance without compromising on space or convenience, perfectly balancing practicality with high functionality.
Project Overview
Product installation
The product installation involved deploying advanced in-ground, overhead, and Cylindrical chargers, optimising space usage while ensuring efficient setup for the depot's operational needs.
Testing & software connection
During product testing and software connection, each charger was rigorously tested and integrated with our Electron platform, ensuring reliable remote control and seamless operation.
Go live & handover
The Go Live phase marked the successful activation of the charging system, enabling full operational functionality and support for the depot's electric fleet.
In-Ground Installation
Our Cylindrical charger installation features a rapid deployment process, made possible by the use of a pre-fabricated units. This innovative design allows the charger to be installed quickly and efficiently, minimising downtime and disruption. The pre-fab concrete units also include built-in drainage capabilities, ensuring that the charger remains protected from water ingress and operates reliably in all weather conditions. This approach combines speed, durability, and advanced engineering to deliver a robust and efficient charging solution.
Overhead Installation
Our overhead charger installation was completed in record time, thanks to the efficient design that allows for quick and seamless integration with existing infrastructure. The chargers were easily bolted onto the depot's existing structures, minimising the need for extensive modifications or additional support systems. This approach not only expedited the installation process but also significantly reduced the maintenance required.
Cylindrical DC Installation
Our installation of in-ground and on-ground chargers was completed swiftly, demonstrating our commitment to efficiency. The in-ground chargers were seamlessly embedded into the parking area, while the cylindrical units were strategically positioned for optimal use. Both types of chargers were rapidly installed, with the in-ground units designed to blend into the surface, minimising disruption and space usage.
Go Live & Handover
The Go Live phase marks the official activation of the charging system, where all components are fully operational and integrated. During the handover, we provide comprehensive training and documentation to ensure smooth transition and ongoing support for fleet management.
Charge Testing
We perform rigorous stability, heating, and current testing on our chargers to ensure the highest standards of performance and safety. Our testing protocols are designed to verify that each charger delivers the most reliable and optimal charge for our customers' fleets. This thorough approach guarantees stable operation, efficient heating management, and accurate current delivery, providing a safe and effective charging solution tailored to meet the needs of diverse fleets.
Electron Control Platform
We conduct thorough software testing and continuous updates on our platform to ensure seamless connectivity and management of the chargers. Our system is designed for real-time monitoring and control, with regular updates enhancing performance, security, and functionality to adapt to evolving needs and ensure optimal operation.
Hardware Testing
Our rigorous hardware testing for the in-ground chargers includes comprehensive roll-over tests to ensure durability and safety under heavy loads. The chargers are engineered with innovative rainwater protection and drainage systems, designed to handle extreme weather conditions and prevent water ingress, enhancing their reliability and longevity in diverse environments.
Cable drop down testing
The drop-down charger underwent extensive testing to ensure reliable operation both remotely and manually. We conducted rigorous remote cable drop-down tests using our advanced platform, verifying that the system consistently deployed the charging cable with precision. In addition, manual wind-up tests were performed to assess the durability and ease of use of the cable retraction mechanism. These comprehensive tests confirmed that the drop-down charger is capable of delivering dependable performance in both automated and manual modes, ensuring seamless operation for fleet operators.
Roll-over proof
The in-ground charger underwent extensive roll-over testing, where it was subjected to over 20 buses per day to assess its durability and performance under extreme conditions. This rigorous testing ensured that the charger could withstand heavy, repetitive loads, confirming its resilience and reliability in demanding, real-world scenarios. The results demonstrated that the charger is built to endure continuous use in high-traffic environments, making it a robust and dependable solution for fleet operations.
Hub & spoke charging model
Our hub-and-spoke EV charging model allows for the strategic placement of charger master units in underutilised or unused spaces within a facility. These master units, located in areas that would otherwise serve no purpose, are connected via wiring to the charging units placed directly by the EVs. This setup maximises the use of available space while ensuring efficient power distribution to the charging points, offering a streamlined and space-saving solution for large-scale EV charging operations.