Lothian Buses has expanded its electric bus fleet with the introduction of nine Wrightbus GB Kite Electroliner single-deck buses, strengthening efforts to modernize public transport in Edinburgh.
The battery-electric buses entered service on June 29, operating on the Service 36 route between Ocean Terminal and the Gyle Centre.
The deployment forms part of a £3.6 million investment by the Edinburgh-based operator to support the transition toward a more sustainable and lower-emission transport network.
New Electric Buses Enter Passenger Service
Lothian Buses said each GB Kite Electroliner can accommodate up to 76 passengers and includes accessibility features such as a dedicated wheelchair space, priority seating and a flexible multi-use area for strollers and mobility aids.
The buses are designed to provide quieter and smoother journeys while improving passenger comfort.
According to Wrightbus, the GB Kite Electroliner is available with CATL battery packs offering capacities of either 442 kilowatt-hours (kWh) or 528 kWh.
The model supports CCS2 charging and can be equipped with plug-in charging of up to 150 kilowatts (kW) or opportunity charging at up to 360 kW.
Supporting Fleet Electrification
Dylan Dastey, Engineering Director at Lothian Buses, said the new vehicles represent an investment in both customer experience and sustainable transport.
“We’re delighted to welcome these new GB Kite Electroliner vehicles into service in partnership with Wrightbus. This investment is about delivering the best possible experience for our customers, with modern vehicles that are comfortable, accessible and reliable.”
He added:
“The new buses provide a quieter and smoother journey while helping us continue to improve the quality of our network.”
Christian Reynolds, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said the partnership supports Lothian Buses’ long-term decarbonization strategy.
“We are proud to be working with Lothian Buses as it continues its drive towards an all zero-emission fleet.”
He added:
“The introduction of the new vehicles forms part of Lothian’s ongoing programme of fleet investment, ensuring customers continue to benefit from modern, high-quality public transport that supports the city’s growing travel needs.”
The latest fleet addition forms part of Lothian Buses’ broader program to increase the number of zero-emission vehicles operating across Scotland’s capital while improving accessibility and passenger experience.
