Cardiff Bus has launched a fleet of 36 electric single-decker buses as it removed its articulated buses, also known as“bendy-buses”, from service.
The Yutong E12 electric buses, which represent 24% of the fleet, were unveiled in January. The EVs form part of Cardiff Bus’ efforts to reduce its emissions and assist the Welsh capital in reducing overall air pollution.
Funding for the zero-emission buses comes from a successful bid by the operator and Cardiff Council to the Department for Transport’s Ultra-Low Emissions Bus Scheme.
Cabinet Member for strategic planning and transport, Councillor Caro Wild, said: “It is great to see the new fleet of electric buses on the streets of Cardiff, and they will play an important part towards our clean air and carbon neutral ambitions for the city.
“These modern vehicles will significantly improve the customer experience and are great for the environment, as they produce zero exhaust emissions and reduce noise pollution as well. We know from our own research that people are genuinely excited about electric buses coming to Cardiff, so now that they are here, we hope as many people will use them as possible.”
Additionally, EV fleet and battery storage company Zenobē has financed and implemented the charging infrastructure and an end-to-end software solution to manage fleet charging, as well as the resulting power requirements.
Steven Meersman, co-founder of Zenobē, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Cardiff Bus to facilitate the launch of its electric offering and help grow sustainable transport in Wales. This project could not have happened without close collaboration between Cardiff Bus, the Welsh government, Pelican/Yutong and Zenobē.
“Our charging infrastructure and intelligent flexible power solution will enable Cardiff Bus to future proof and charge its new fleet reliably and efficiently. We’re excited to be boosting accessibility to sustainable travel and clean air across the city and supporting a swift transition to a low carbon future.”
