UK bus operator First Bus has brought the first ‘repowered’ electric buses to the West of England, delivering 27 electric double deckers to the city of Bath. These new buses, which will be the first zero-emission buses to arrive in the city, are based on mid-life diesel buses, which have had their engines and gearboxes removed and replaced with batteries and fully-electric powertrains, along with a full exterior and interior refurbishment. On the surface, these new models look like brand new electric buses, but this solution makes them more affordable than purchasing an all-new electric bus, and more sustainable.
In preparation for the arrival of these repowered buses in Bath, electrification of the city’s bus depot is about to be completed, ensuring these buses have the facility to be recharged between services.
Alongside the first electric buses for Bath, First Bus is also continuing its expansion of electric buses across the wider West of England transport area. Another four electric buses are also beginning operation in Weston-super-Mare, whilst later this year, neighbouring Bristol is expected to receive another 116 electric models. First Bus has ambitious electrification plans, and is currently working towards having a nationwide 100% electric fleet by 2035.
Doug Claringbold, First Bus Regional Director for South and West, commented:
“Yet again we’re hitting more milestones in our electrification of our West of England fleet.
Not only are we heading towards our Hengrove depot being 100% electric with the arrival of more buses this year, but we’re also excited to welcome our first repowers, demonstrating a real commitment to going even further in our efforts to be more sustainable.
Our company is committed to operating a fully electric fleet by 2035, with 25% of our fleet nationally now electric. By the end of this year almost half the West of England’s buses will be electric with about 750,000 of our passengers each week travelling on electric buses making bus travel greener, smoother and quieter for our customers, and contributing to better air quality for our towns and cities.”
Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, added:
“This is a big day for Bath & North East Somerset, with the first green buses now at home at the city’s First Bus depot. It’s also a big day for the whole of the West of England, thanks to our first converted electric buses rolling out too.
By the end of this year, more than 250 green buses will be serving passengers across the West – offering more reliable journeys and a better on-board experience. These better buses will ultimately help cut congestion and pollution as a result of some £150 million of joint investment.”
