Northern Ireland-based bus manufacturer Wrightbus has unveiled two new zero-emission buses, including a hydrogen-powered single-decker.
The GB Kite Hydroliner has had its top bodyside fairings removed to reveal the packaging of the storage cylinders and other equipment. The same technology will also power a new single deck GB Kite Electroliner battery powered bus.
Jo Bamford, Wrightbus executive chairman, said: “We’re proud to be at the very forefront of zero-emission bus manufacturing.
“The creation of our new single-deck hydrogen and single-deck electric battery buses means Wrightbus is proud to be the only UK manufacturer currently able to offer four zero-emission vehicles to the market – which include the Hydroliner, the first hydrogen double decker bus in the world.”
The new single deck buses are expected to go into production in 2022 and will be available across the UK and Ireland.
The Hydroliner will have a range of up to 640 miles, while the Electroliner up to 300 miles on a single charge. Wrightbus predicts the fastest charging version can be charged in over two hours.
Both buses share 86% of parts with Wrightbus’ double deckers, which the manufacturer said delivers benefits to operators in terms of reducing complexity and costs for fleet maintenance.
“We’re continuing to invest not only in employees, but in the technological advances that will keep our buses at the very pinnacle of the industry,” added Bamford.
Wrightbus currently supply hydrogen buses for services in Aberdeen, Belfast, Birmingham and London.
