UK-based bus operator First Bus has announced a collaboration with UK delivery company DPD to improve the environmental impact of journeys in Glasgow.
The move aligns with the First Bus’ ambitions from COP26 to offer local businesses use of the 160 rapid electric vehicle (EV) chargepoints at its Caledonia Depot.
After 12 months, DPD has officially become the first company to sign up to the scheme, which will enable DPD drivers to access and use the facilities while in Glasgow.
What’s more, the operator hopes the partnership will maximise use of the EV hub by allowing other vehicles to be charged while its own bus fleet is out in service.
Graeme Macfarlan, commercial director at First Bus, said: “The partnership with DPD reflects the commitment we made during COP26 to help other businesses to achieve their green ambitions.
“We hope that this marks the first of many valuable partnerships and demonstrates the power that comes from working together to reduce carbon emissions.
“Electrifying fleets, and having the infrastructure in place to support them, is a mammoth undertaking, and it simply isn’t feasible for each and every business to build its own charging station.
“Reducing carbon emissions is a priority for us – not just to meet our own targets but because we’re committed to delivering cleaner, greener journeys for Glasgow.”
Hitachi ZeroCarbon supported the bus operator with the development and installation of the chargers, which offer DC ultra-rapid charging for commercial EVs.
DPD aims to be the most sustainable parcel delivery company in the UK and the company claims to be on track to having more than 3,000 EVs on the road this year, with expectation that it will reach 4,000 by 2023, when it will deliver using EVs exclusively in 30 towns and cities.
First Bus hopes to grow its number of zero-emission buses and EV charging infrastructure across Scotland, with plans reportedly in place for the electrification of its Scotstoun and Aberdeen depots.
