A BYD car. (File photo)

LONDON, July 29 -- Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD confirmed Wednesday that it has signed a 19-million-pound (about 29.6 million U.S. dollars) deal with British bus maker Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) to produce 51 zero-emission buses for London.

BYD said the vehicles would be built on BYD chassis and powered by its leading electric drivetrain, but all of the 51 buses would be bodied by ADL, incorporating their Enviro200-like midi bus design, which is renowned for its lightweight, easy access and fuel efficiency.

It said the 51 buses, which would be the first large-scale, zero-emission, single deck bus fleet to be introduced into London, would run on two routes by London bus operator Go-Ahead London. They are expected to be put into use by August 2016.

The move followed an announcement from Transport for London (TfL) earlier this month that it would electrify central London routes 507 and 521 as part of its drive to make all of its single deck buses emission-free by 2020.

"Working together with our partners and friends at ADL we can provide a truly optimized blend of expertise. Our deep experience of not only battery technology but the critical battery management systems and driveline components necessary to deliver unequaled range and reliability are matched to ADL's strong track record in building low weight, attractive and durable buses," said Isbrand Ho, managing director of BYD Europe.

"This combination will deliver a unique vehicle which we believe will have a strong appeal in London and elsewhere in the UK," said Ho.

"We are delighted to have placed this order with BYD and have every confidence that along with ADL. They will deliver the world's most advanced, zero-emission, pure electric bus fleet, and one that will match the rigorous demands of the London operating environment. This is a considerable step towards a cleaner, greener London bus fleet," said Richard Harrington, engineering director of Go-Ahead London.