A NEW multi-million-pound fleet of zero-emission electric buses is being rolled out.
Keighley Bus Company is introducing the vehicles on two routes.
Several of the buses are already operating the Shuttle service, between Keighley and Bradford.
And they’re also being launched on the 67 route between Keighley, Cullingworth, Thornton and Bradford.
In total, 15 electric eCitaro buses are taking to the roads.
It follows a £4.5 million investment by the bus company, plus £3 million secured by West Yorkshire Combined Authority from the Government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme.
Also, parent firm Transdev has equipped the Keighley Bus Company depot with latest electric charging and maintenance services for the new fleet – thanks to a £1 million joint investment with the combined authority.
Transdev managing director Henri Rohard says: “We’re very pleased to be introducing this impressive new fleet of zero-emission, battery electric buses, which will deliver the best experience for our customers as well as helping to clear the air in Bradford, Bingley and Keighley.
“Our phased introduction of these new buses has been made possible thanks to significant support from the Government’s ZEBRA fund, and follows our successful introduction of 39 new electric buses on our popular route 36 linking Leeds with Harrogate and Ripon, and on our local Harrogate network.
“Transdev’s direct investment in the new buses for the Shuttle and route 67 between Keighley and Bradford represents almost 60 per cent of their total cost.
“The buses are a considerable step up from the vehicles they replace, with many new design elements dramatically improving the customer experience.
“This specification has been devised with valued feedback from our customers to make travelling by bus comfortable, accessible and attractive.
“The new buses feature fast and free Wi-Fi and USB device charging; custom-designed seating in a part leather, part moquette design unique to us; and for the first time on these routes, hearing loops and two colour audio-visual information screens, one facing the wheelchair space, giving constantly updated journey information.
“Each bus also features extensive safety systems, including electronic assistance at the front and when turning, plus traffic sign monitoring and electronic tyre pressure reporting.
“Acceleration Skid Control also significantly cuts stopping distances in an emergency, by applying braking more quickly and precisely.
“Higher power output from today’s new generation batteries means each bus can go further between charge-ups, while delivering the reliable service rightly expected from us.”
