First Bus announces new electric bus fleet to benefit students

^{Image credit: First Bus.}

First Bus has partnered with Robert Gordon University to announce a £12.7 million investment in a new fleet of 36 electric buses.

The investment hopes to cement First Bus’s commitment to sustainability with a goal to achieve a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035.

Forming part of the over £100 million investment announced by First Bus across the UK for 2024/25, the new fleet will consist of 24 state-of-the-art WrightBus double deckers and 12 repowers – which are traditional internal combustion engine buses converted to electric buses.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO at WrightBus, said: “Public transport is at the forefront of the green revolution and these buses for Aberdeen will instantly remove harmful emissions from the city.

“Our zero-emission buses have gained a global following, with exports to Asia, Australia and Europe, and this investment by First Bus demonstrates their continued commitment to sustainable transport solutions.”

The new vehicles will be deployed on routes 1 and 2, ensuring that students can enjoy cleaner and greener journeys.

Upon their arrival, the addition of the new buses will make the proportion of zero-emission vehicles in First Bus’s Aberdeen fleet one of the highest in the UK.

Duncan Cameron, managing director at First Bus Scotland, added: "This £12.7 million investment in new electric buses is a game-changer for Aberdeen. It not only aligns with our green ambitions but also underscores our commitment to providing more sustainable and comfortable transportation options for the city.

“It was a pleasure to meet with students from Robert Gordon University to discuss the impact the new buses will have on the university and hear firsthand their passion for sustainability. By significantly increasing the number of zero-emission buses in our fleet, we are taking bold steps to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions, making Aberdeen a cleaner and healthier place to live.”