Public transport, in Hull, has taken a major step forward, in terms of comfort, reliability, safety and environmental impact, as a new fleet of ultra-modern electric buses have started to take passengers around the city.
Stagecoach East Midland’s new fleet of 42 electric buses all offer a comfortable and smooth ride, as well as the promise of ever more modern and reliable services, as there are fewer working parts to maintain – electric buses only need to be serviced every six weeks, rather than every four weeks for diesel buses.
They are also a major landmark in reducing local noise pollution, as they emit as little as 50 decibels – as quiet as a normal conversation – rather than a diesel bus, which typically emits 72 decibels.
The vehicles are all equipped with electric parking brakes, hill start assist, and electric ‘smart’ mirrors, designed to improve visibility – particularly in low-light conditions.
The new buses were officially launched at an event at the MKM Stadium, with dignitaries from Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, as well as other key representatives. The investment forms the biggest order of buses in the last 125 years for Hull.
From today (Monday), electric buses have launched on Services 3, 5 and 12, and it is planned that they will extend to Services 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15.
The operator intends that 55 buses in its fleet, in the city, will be electric within the next 12 months, and has installed 56 charging points at its Foster Street depot. The range of a fully charged electric double-decker is approximately 260 miles, and single-decker 300 miles, whereas a typical bus, in Hull, will travel 135 miles each day.
The launch comes after a joint £28 million investment from Stagecoach, Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the Department for Transport, to deliver the new electric buses and the infrastructure to support them.
Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, said: “We are so proud to be bringing these wonderful new vehicles to our loyal customers in Hull. Investments like this aim to offer a more reliable and more comfortable service, as well as cleaner air for everyone
“Our ongoing multi-million-pound investment will continue to decarbonise our fleet while bringing state-of-the-art bus travel to our customers. As we invest in a new electric fleet to bring more sustainable public transport, we would encourage everyone to leave their cars at home and give our new buses a go.”
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport and Infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “Stagecoach’s new electric buses are a fantastic step forward for Hull. They’re cleaner, quieter and more reliable, and they will make everyday journeys easier for thousands of people across our city.
“This investment shows real confidence in Hull’s future. Modern, dependable public transport is essential for a growing city, and these new buses will help us deliver exactly that.”
— The launch comes during August when children, under 16, can travel for free on local buses under the government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme. Adult Single fares are capped at just £3. To find out more about local bus routes and services, to buy before you board, and to track your local bus, download the Stagecoach Bus App at www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/stagecoachbusapp.