Solent from First Bus has introduced four newly-converted electric buses into service in Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport.
The ‘repowered’ diesel vehicles have been fully refurbished to a near-new standard and converted to electric power, delivering more environmentally friendly travel for passengers.
The news comes one year after the electrification of First Bus’s Hoeford depot in Fareham, and the successful introduction of 62 new electric buses to Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport, in partnership with Portsmouth City Council and Hampshire County Council.
The repowered buses will run on routes across Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport, including the University routes in Portsmouth.
By repurposing existing diesel vehicles, First Bus aims to is extend the lifespan of the vehicles, while avoiding the environmental impact associated with disposing of old ones.
The conversion process, undertaken by UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus, takes out the diesel engine and replaces it with an electric – at less time and cost of manufacturing an electric bus.
This process significantly reduces carbon emissions, making it a highly sustainable solution for fleet renewal.
The newly converted electric buses bring all the benefits of new electric vehicles, including zero tailpipe emissions.
They will contribute to improved air quality, reducing harmful pollutants that can negatively impact respiratory health.
Gary Weaver, First Bus South’s Engineering Director, said:
“We are proud to introduce these four converted electric buses to Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport. This initiative not only provides a second life for existing vehicles but also delivers a low-carbon, sustainable transport option that benefits both passengers and the wider community.
“At First Bus, we are committed to leading the way in the transition to greener public transport, and this project is another example of how we are making that happen.”
Cllr Peter Candlish, Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport said:
“The success of electric buses in Portsmouth has already shown how quieter, cleaner, and greener travel benefits our city.
“Cost-effectively re-powering these buses from diesel to electric is a smart way to bring forward another step in our commitment to deliver affordable, sustainable, and zero-emission transport for everyone.”
First Bus will be speaking at the inaugural Transport + Energy Fleet Electrification Forum on 9 July at Warwick Conferences. Find out more about the event here.
Image courtesy of First Bus
