The first of Southern Vectis’ brand new electric buses is arriving on the island this week.
A new UK-built Wrightbus Electroliner double decker vehicles will initially be used for engineering and driver training, before entering service on routes across the Isle of Wight later in March.
Tyldsley: Will ensure greener, better, journeys for our customers
Southern Vectis general manager, Richard Tyldsley, said,
“These buses are the first of our 31 brand new electric vehicles, following our successful bid, in partnership with Isle of Wight Council, for funding from the Department for Transport’s ZEBRA 2 (Zero Emission Bus Regional Area) scheme. This, alongside our own investment of £10.7m and the council’s additional £733,000.
“The new vehicles will have a distinct appearance, and those living in or visiting the Isle of Wight will be sure to notice them travelling across the Island.
“Our depot is now equipped and ready to ensure our new fleet is charged and set to revolutionalise our network here.
“This joint investment between DfT, Southern Vectis and Isle of Wight Council will ensure greener, better, journeys for our customers – and have a significant impact the Isle of Wight’s overall carbon emissions.”
Jones-Evans: Marks an exciting and important step
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chair of the Isle of Wight Council’s economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee, said,
“The arrival of these first electric buses marks an exciting and important step in our journey to modernise the Island’s transport network.
“Our partnership with Southern Vectis and the Department for Transport means Islanders will benefit from cleaner, quieter and more reliable journeys, while helping us reduce emissions and improve air quality.
“This investment is not just about transport – it supports our wider ambitions for regeneration, sustainability and a thriving future for the Isle of Wight.”
This new bus will be joined by the remaining 30 Wrightbus Electroliner double decker buses over the coming weeks.
News shared by Paula on behalf of Southern Vectis. Ed
