West Yorkshire Combined Authority has awarded a contract worth up to £100 million to Wrightbus for the supply of 193 battery-electric buses that will operate on the region’s planned Weaver Network public transport system.
The order includes both single-deck and double-deck electric buses, with deliveries scheduled to take place in phases between spring 2027 and late 2028.
According to the authority, the vehicles will form part of the Weaver Network, an integrated transport system being introduced under a franchising model that will give public authorities greater control over bus services across West Yorkshire.
New Fleet to Support Network Launch
The electric buses will be equipped with two wheelchair spaces, flexible areas for pushchairs and luggage, and onboard USB charging ports for passengers.
The authority said the vehicles will also feature a new generation of battery technology designed to deliver improved performance compared with earlier electric bus models. Further details regarding battery capacity, driving range and charging infrastructure have not yet been released.
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said the new buses would play a key role in the transformation of public transport services across the region.
“These beautiful new buses herald the start of a new era for public transport in a better-connected West Yorkshire,” said Brabin.
“We’re proud to be buying from a UK firm – it’s another benefit of a publicly-controlled bus network.”
“I can’t wait to see them weaving their way through our streets in less than a year’s time,” she added.
Wrightbus Highlights UK Manufacturing
Wrightbus said the contract supports domestic manufacturing and strengthens the UK’s zero-emission vehicle industry.
“This award reflects a clear commitment to UK manufacturing and the domestic supply chain in a highly competitive global market,” said Wrightbus Managing Director Christian Reynolds.
“Securing this contract enables us to demonstrate the strength, quality and competitiveness of UK-built zero-emission vehicles.”
The buses will be manufactured by Wrightbus, one of the UK’s largest bus builders and a major supplier of zero-emission public transport vehicles.
Weaver Network Rollout Underway
The Weaver Network is expected to begin operations within the next year as West Yorkshire transitions to a franchised bus system.
Under the new model, West Yorkshire Combined Authority will be responsible for setting fares, routes and timetables, functions traditionally managed by private bus operators.
The authority said revenue generated through the network will be reinvested into improving public transport services across the region.
As part of preparations for the launch, more than 150 new environmentally friendly bus shelters are currently being installed throughout West Yorkshire to replace older infrastructure.
The electric bus order represents one of the largest recent investments in zero-emission public transport in the region and forms part of broader efforts to improve connectivity and reduce transport-related emissions.
