First Bus is now able to fully charge its growing fleet of electric buses in four hours, as phase one of a works programme is completed at what is set to be the UK’s largest EV charging hub.
As part of its green transformation plans, Glasgow’s Caledonia bus depot has had 11 advanced rapid 150kW dual cable charging units installed. This first phase of work has been completed ahead of a new batch of 22 electric buses arriving at the depot ahead of COP26.
First Bus added this marks a step forward in its plans to have a zero-emission fleet by 2035.
With phased completion for the remainder of the work scheduled to take place across the next year, the depot has been designed to accommodate and charge up to 300 electric buses on site, and will see the introduction of 150 electric buses over the next 18 months.
The dual cable direct current rapid charging units have been supplied, installed, and commissioned by Dutch rapid charging business Heliox, and have the power to charge a standard family car in less than 10 minutes.
Each rapid charging station will be controlled via smart charging software to ensure that power is used in the most efficient way. This approach aims to minimise the draw down from the national grid at peak times. The digital programming will also mean that each vehicle is fully charged, and the bus interiors are preheated, ready for drivers and customers from the moment the vehicles leave the depot.
With an additional 69 rapid chargers set to be installed during phase two, the Caledonia depot will soon be able to charge 162 vehicles at one time.
Janette Bell, managing director for First Bus UK, said: “Innovative technology and electric infrastructure are key to minimising the UK’s carbon emissions, and so it’s fantastic to see this first step of our vision for the UK’s largest EV bus depot come to fruition. Our transition to a zero-emission fleet is a bold ambition, and at every stage First Bus is committed to transforming our business for the good of the environment.
“We’re proud to be putting our weight behind Scotland’s green ambitions and the completion of this first phase of works at Caledonia depot give us an exciting glimpse into the future of bus. To see this first EV charging station site completed and ready to go in Glasgow, just as the city prepares to host COP26 later this year, is a brilliant achievement.”
Following completion, the adapted depot will have the capability to charge 89% of the depot’s electric bus fleet at the same time using smart charging software. First Bus’ long-term objective is to ensure that the site is fully prepared for the transition to a 100% zero-emission fleet. This will include opportunities for further on-site renewable energy generation and storage.
Read more: First Bus to invest in sustainable transport for Glasgow
