Bus and coach supplier Alexander Dennis and automotive manufacturer BYD UK have jointly announced today [17 April 2023] the delivery of 39 zero-emission buses to Stagecoach in Scotland as part of the pair’s electric vehicle (EV) partnership.
Some 24 BYD AD Enviro200EV single deckers and 15 BYD AD Enviro400EV double deckers will be deployed throughout Stagecoach’s operations across Scotland.
In addition, 13 buses were added to Perth’s fleet, joining nine earlier vehicles and marking the full electrification of the city’s bus network.
The delivery of another 11 buses to Dunfermline means the city’s network is also now fully zero-emission.
Aberdeen and Ayrshire received 15 new BYD–Alexander Dennis electric buses, growing the two area’s respective fleets.
Marie Connell, national account manager, Alexander Dennis, said: “We are delighted to continue to support Stagecoach as it transitions to a zero-emission bus fleet across Scotland. Our single deck and double deck electric buses are a great fit for services in Ayrshire, Dunfermline, Perth and Aberdeen, often joining earlier examples of the same type.
“Customers will love the smooth acceleration, air conditioning and comfortable Alexander Dennis SmartSeats, while drivers will benefit from a familiar vehicle. Thanks to the Scottish Government’s support through ScotZEB, these buses have helped to underpin skilled jobs and apprenticeships in the UK bus manufacturing industry.”
The scheme was part-funded by the Scottish Government through the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB), which aims to support the introduction of more zero-emission vehicles throughout the country’s bus network. Its other key aims are cutting greenhouse gas emissions and introducing greater sustainability throughout its vehicle supply chain.
Sam Greer, regional director for Scotland, Stagecoach, said: “As part of our drive to target a net zero UK bus fleet by 2035, we are delighted to deliver the UK’s first all-electric city bus networks, building further on the investment made in new zero emission buses in a number of places in the UK.
“These new state-of-the-art electric buses introduced across Dunfermline, Inverness and Perth will help deliver significantly reduced emissions in these cities. One of the quickest ways local people can help deliver net zero is by switching from cars to buses, as well as walking and cycling more.
“We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with the Scottish Government and local transport authorities on measures to deliver more priority for bus passengers, more reliable services, simpler ticketing and the best value fares.”
Stagecoach now operates a total of 85 BYD–Alexander Dennis electric buses in Scotland.
