Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL) and BYD UK have announced that they have supplied 12 British-built electric double decker buses to bus operator Xplore Dundee.
Built locally in Scotland at ADL’s factory in Falkirk utilising BYD’s pioneering expertise in batteries and integrated powertrain technology, the dozen BYD ADL Enviro400EV are Dundee’s first zero emission buses.
Once driver training is complete early in the new year, they will run on Xplore’s service 28, serving Dundee’s Lochee Road which is the fourth most polluted street in Scotland.
Their introduction will further improve local air quality in a city that is at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. The council here has a fleet of more than 150 electric vehicles and the area is gaining recognition worldwide for its ambition and vision.
All the pure-electric buses benefit from BYD Iron-Phosphate Batteries, an advanced battery technology that delivers an impressive driving range of up to 160 miles (247km). This makes them a practical and efficient choice for busy operators such as Xplore Dundee.
Their deployment in Dundee comes shortly after the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference held in Scotland. Here, similar BYD ADL electric buses played prominent roles in the transport of delegates as well as state leaders, demonstrating that electric buses are an essential part of the solution to the climate emergency.
Christine McGlasson, Xplore Dundee managing director, said: “This is a milestone moment for us at Xplore Dundee. We are so proud to bring these electric double deckers to Dundee, the first of their kind for the city.
“Our fleet is now three-quarters low or zero emission and we’re not going to stop there. We believe that buses are the solution to pollution, and as part of the McGill’s group, we intend to continue investing in our fleet to provide a cleaner, greener public transport offering to the people of our Dundee.”
Charlie Miller, ADL sales account manager, said: “We’re delighted that Dundee is another city on the road to net zero thanks to this investment by Xplore Dundee.
“Built in Falkirk, these buses have boosted skilled jobs and apprenticeships in Scottish manufacturing as well as benefitting residents in Dundee and helping to mitigate climate change. They’re really a win for everyone.”
Frank Thorpe, BYD UK managing director, said: “We strive to play our part in making a difference through practical and viable electric mobility solutions to address climate change.
“To think that BYD ADL zero-emission electric buses will make such a valuable contribution to clean air in such a recognised polluted route, is a very positive step forward.
“We are excited that Xplore Dundee has chosen BYD ADL eBuses in pursuit of their zero-emission goals for green transportation and pleased to support them on their ongoing electric journey.”
