Electric Bus Operation Guide
Electric Bus Operation Guide
If the "EV Wait to Start" indicator remains illuminated, first ensure all bus access panels are closed, the plug-in charger is not connected, the Push-Button Shift Selector is in Neutral, and the parking brake is applied. If these conditions are met yet the indicator persists, contact Maintenance or Dispatch for further assistance .
Hill Start Aid should not be used as a Parking Brake and must not be relied upon when leaving the driver’s seat, as its design is only to prevent rolling backward temporarily, not to act as a permanent brake .
If the "EV Propulsion Enabled" indicator malfunctions, the driver may falsely believe the bus is ready to drive when it is not, potentially leading to issues since the interlocks might not be disabled, and the accelerator may not be enabled, resulting in the bus failing to move when the accelerator is pressed .
Vehicle range estimates are influenced by the SOC of the HV Battery Packs, driving conditions, regenerative braking use, and overall energy consumption patterns. These factors cause the range value to fluctuate as they impact how quickly battery power is used or regenerated, requiring dynamic adjustment of driving strategies and potentially altering planned routes .
If the "HV Access Panel - MPIL" indicator activates, the operator should immediately check for open high-voltage access panels or uncapped high-voltage measurement ports, and verify the rear disconnect switch position. The operator must contact Dispatch for further instructions, highlighting the importance of safety protocols for high-voltage systems .
In such a scenario, initiate a systematic protocol by first safely parking the vehicle and setting the Shift Selector to Neutral, while applying the parking brake. Conduct an immediate vehicle diagnostic for open high-voltage panels or uncapped ports, confirming the rear disconnect switch status. Then, contact Dispatch detailing both alerts to receive comprehensive instructions. Prioritize safety and prevent further operation until corrective measures are validated by Maintenance or Dispatch, ensuring both vehicle integrity and passenger safety are maintained throughout the process .
Electronic stability control is activated with the Master Run Control and is initially indicated with a light that goes off once the bus speed reaches 5 mph. In case of a fault indicated by the system, as the light without the slash remains on, the driver should stop the vehicle when safe and notify Dispatch to address the system fault .
The "Regen Limited" indicator is linked to the SOC of the HV Battery Packs; it turns on when the battery packs are fully charged (100% SOC), automatically disabling regenerative braking to prevent overcharging. Additionally, regenerative braking can be disabled if manually done by the operator using the Regenerative Brake switch .
The activation of the "State of Charge (Low)" indicator, which signals the SOC is at or below 10%, prompts the driver to reassess the vehicle’s range and anticipate potential need for a charge sooner, necessitating communication with Dispatch for operational adjustments. Similarly, monitoring the SOC gauge assists in planning recharging stops or efficiency optimizations .
When an amber "Check EV" or a red "Stop EV" warning light appears while in route, the vehicle should be stopped and parked. Apply the parking brake and set the Shift Selector to Neutral. Notify Dispatch immediately for guidance on whether the vehicle can continue operation .