Electric double decker bus trial welcomed in Leeds

First Leeds and Optare have partnered up to trial the Metrodecker EV in the city.

Following a successful trial in York, First Leeds has launched its trial of a new fully electric double decker bus.

It will be seen serving the Park & Ride sites at Elland Road and Temple Green.

The zero-emission and fully electric bus has the capacity to carry 99 passengers and has a range of nearly 150 miles from one overnight charge.

The new vehicle is being trialled as part of First Leeds’s commitment to investing £71m in 284 new ultra-low emissions buses for the city.

Paul Matthews, managing director at First Leeds, said: “As one of the major bus operators in Leeds, we understand the vital role we play in working with the Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority through the Bus 18 initiative, to find solutions to reduce air pollution in the city.

“Allied to our commitment to invest in 284 new vehicles in Leeds with the latest engine technologies that significantly reduce pollutants, I’m thrilled to welcome the trial of a fully electric double
decker bus into the city.”