McGill’s Group has launched a batch of 30 new Yutong E12 electric buses for its Midland Bluebird operation, representing a £14 million investment into expanding its zero-emission fleet.
The Scottish independent operator, which now has 151 electric buses, unveiled its latest single-deckers in Falkirk.
Midland Bluebird’s 38 service between Falkirk and Stirling will now be all-electric, while the frequency has been increased to every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday.
Several other routes in the Forth Valley will also be served by the new buses.
The Yutong E12 buses are powered by 422kWh batteries and feature air conditioning and USB charging sockets.
Tony Williamson, Chief Executive of McGill’s Group, says: “With this investment, McGill’s continues to operate one of the UK’s largest electric bus fleets, reinforcing our leadership in the shift to zero-emission public transport across Scotland.
“This rollout reflects the vision of our owners, Sandy and James Easdale, whose ongoing commitment to sustainable travel is helping us deliver a greener network and a better experience for the communities we serve.”
The buses were partially funded by the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB2), which is supporting the roll-out of 252 zero-emissions across Scotland by means of £41.7 million of investment.
Midland Bluebird’s depot in Larbert has been upgraded with charging infrastructure by Zenobē, which led the ScotZEB2 consortium.
Following delivery of 12 Yutong U11DD battery-electric double-deck buses to McGill’s operator Xplore Dundee in March, the Group now has all 42 buses which were funded via ScotZEB2.
Julia Meek, Business Development Director at Zenobē, says: “Zenobē is proud to support Midland Bluebird with the launch of 30 zero-emission single-decker buses across the Forth Valley, continuing our work with McGill’s group to bring a fleet of more than 150 electric buses to Scotland.
“As leader of the ScotZEB2 consortium and fleet electrification provider for the Larbert depot, we remain committed to delivering electrification on time and within budget, connecting communities across Scotland with cleaner, smoother journeys.”
Ian Downie, Head of Yutong UK, adds: “McGill’s were the very first Scottish operator to order our electric vehicles – this order will bring their total Yutong fleet to 125 single decks in operation. We have been delighted to maintain and grow our partnership over the past few years.
“The new Midland Bluebird vehicles have a superb internal and external styling that clearly demonstrates the continued investment that McGill’s Group places into the community. The whisper-quiet vehicles will soon be gliding around the Midland Bluebird network and providing clean, zero emission travel for the local residents.”
