First Bus, a public transport provider in the UK, is taking significant steps towards a greener future by embarking on a groundbreaking project to transform its Norwich Roundtree Way depot. The initiative aims to prepare the facility for the arrival of an impressive fleet of 70 Wrightbus electric buses. This development marks a crucial milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
Scheduled to be rolled out between Autumn 2023 and March 2024, the fleet will consist of 11 single-deck and 59 double-decker electric buses. The order follows First Bus’s previous purchase of 193 electric buses from Wrightbus last year, and in March this year, the company placed an order for an additional 117 fully electric buses. With this latest acquisition, First Bus is set to operate an impressive total of more than 600 electric buses by March 2024, solidifying its position as a leading force in the transition to eco-friendly public transport.
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First Bus’s vision doesn’t stop there; the company has set an ambitious target to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2035. The new Norwich Roundtree Way depot, which is one of the first of its kind outside London, plays a pivotal role in making this goal a reality. With the introduction of the new electric bus fleet, over half of First Bus’s Norwich network will be powered by clean energy, further reducing the environmental impact of its operations.
The forthcoming solo buses are expected to be the GB Kite Electroliner BEV model, while Wrightbus offers the StreetDeck Electroliner BEV as an option for the double-decker electric buses. These state-of-the-art vehicles showcase the latest advancements in electric transportation technology, offering passengers a sustainable and comfortable travel experience.
To support this electrification effort, First Bus has joined forces with Norfolk County Council. The collaboration secured an impressive £14.7 million from the Department for Transport’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) government funding. Additionally, First Bus has invested a substantial £22.5 million in capital to fully electrify the bus services at the Norwich Roundtree Way depot. As part of the sustainable energy strategy, photovoltaic installations have been fitted to the bus depot roof, enhancing the facility’s ability to harness renewable energy.
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The groundbreaking work at the Norwich Roundtree Way depot signifies a significant leap forward in the UK’s public transport transformation. First Bus’s dedication to embracing electric buses, coupled with the support from local and national authorities, sets a remarkable precedent for a cleaner and greener transportation future. As the world seeks sustainable solutions to combat climate change, First Bus’s pioneering efforts serve as an inspiring example for other transport providers to follow suit in the race towards a carbon-neutral future.
