Coventry to have all-electric bus fleet by 2025

Coventry City Council’s target to be the UK’s first all-electric bus fleet by 2025 has received a boost with the news that another 64 buses are being rolled out across the city by Stagecoach.

The latest decision is part of Coventry’s Electric – a £140 million project that reinforces Stagecoach’s commitment to run zero-emission buses on all its services which link Coventry to surrounding areas in Warwickshire.

This major advance means that more than 200 buses, 80 per cent of all those operating within and travelling into the city, will now be electric battery powered.

Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach Midlands managing director, said: “We’re thrilled to be announcing this investment of more than £33 million on these 64 electric buses and the supporting infrastructure at our depots. This investment demonstrates Stagecoach’s confidence in the region and is evidence of us delivering our ambitions to transform bus services for the communities we serve.

“These buses mark a massive moment for the region as we take a huge step towards modernising our services as we provide customers with more comfortable journeys on these state-of-the-art buses as well as contributing to making cleaner, quieter neighbourhoods and a public transport that is more sustainable and efficient.”

Thirty-one double decker buses have been built by British manufacturer Alexander Dennis, with 33 single-deckers from Pelican Yutong. The vehicles are expected to be in service by next spring after depots have been fitted with the facilities to charge them.

The new buses will be the equivalent of taking the emissions of 14,000 cars off the roads of Coventry.

Buses will be fitted with modern amenities, with USB charging points, free WiFi, high-spec passenger information systems, and enhanced wheelchair and buggy space.

Cllr George Duggins, leader of Coventry City Council, said: “We’re delighted to be another step closer to being the first major city or town in the country to boast a fully electric bus fleet.

“Once the project is complete, Coventry residents will benefit from much cleaner air, with the obvious benefits of better health for young and old alike while the city will be served by some of the most modern buses in the UK.”