Transport UK London Bus expands electric fleet

Transport UK London Bus has bolstered its commitment to a greener future with the addition of 12 new GB Kite Electroliner battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), manufactured by Wrightbus in Northern Ireland and financed through a deal with Asset Alliance Group.

The new 10.9-metre single-deck buses, equipped with 454kWh batteries, boast a range of up to 200 miles on a single charge and can carry up to 60 passengers. These buses are part of Transport for London’s (TfL) push toward an all-electric fleet by 2030.

The newly acquired buses have been leased for seven years, aligning with TfL’s contract durations. They will operate on Route R70, connecting Hampton, Twickenham, and Richmond in south-west London.

Alastair Willis, Commercial Director at Transport UK London Bus, said: “We started our decarbonisation journey in 2020. All six of our London depots are now electrified with DC chargers, and approaching a third of our 900-strong bus fleet is electric.

“These latest additions, replacing diesel models, retain that momentum and allow us to continue to play our part in helping the Mayor of London deliver his clean-air pledge. This will see only zero emission buses operating in the capital from 2030,” he added.

The buses promise a smoother and quieter ride compared to their diesel counterparts. Passengers will also benefit from upgraded interiors featuring wood-effect flooring, high-back padded seats, USB charging points, and enhanced digital information displays. Drivers will enjoy added comfort with climate-controlled seats.

Martyn Bellis, Commercial Director for Coach & Bus at Asset Alliance Group, praised the collaboration, saying:

“We were pleased to be able to assist Transport UK London Bus with their ongoing transformation. This latest deal underlines the key role Asset Alliance Group is playing in facilitating the uptake of electric buses in the capital on behalf of the major bus operators and TfL.”