Gatwick Airport, the UK’s second-largest airport, will soon roll out its first fleet of fully electric shuttle buses as part of a new partnership with Spanish manufacturer Irizar e-mobility. The 14 all-electric ie tram buses will operate between long-stay car parks and terminal buildings, marking a significant step in the airport’s push toward low-emission transport.
While technical specifications for Gatwick’s buses have not been disclosed, Irizar’s standard 18-metre ie tram models typically feature a 285 kW electric drivetrain and a battery range of around 350 km. To support rapid recharging, Gatwick will also install an “ultra-fast” pantograph system capable of fully recharging the buses in approximately six minutes—an important feature for vehicles making frequent short trips.
“This deployment underscores our commitment to sustainable, passenger-focused ground operations,” a Gatwick spokesperson said. The buses will also include luggage racks and Irizar’s ‘digital vision’ system, which replaces traditional mirrors with camera feeds to enhance driver visibility.
The ie tram fleet will complement the airport’s existing electric infrastructure, which includes an inter-terminal monorail. However, the new buses are the first road-based fully electric passenger vehicles to operate on the airport’s grounds.
The deal is part of Irizar’s ongoing UK expansion. The company, which already has over 50 electric buses operating in cities such as London, is set to open a UK headquarters in Blyth near Birmingham in late 2025.
“This is a major milestone in Irizar’s UK journey,” the company said in a statement. “We are proud to bring our ie tram technology to one of Europe’s busiest airports and to help decarbonise vital passenger transport services.”
