Arriva is to trial a Yutong GTe14 battery-electric tri-axle coach on the Greenline 757 service between Central London and Luton Airport. It forms part of an exploration of the opportunities and practical considerations around deploying such vehicles.
The demonstrator will run alongside the existing fleet of Mercedes-Benz Tourismo diesel coaches used on the 24/7 route. Arriva says that its focus will be on assessing range and how vehicle schedules can be optimised while minimising charging downtime.
A further part of the project is intention to identify future needs for the Arriva depot in Luton, which employs over 300 people. Customer feedback will also be sought to inform vehicle specifications.
In early 2024, Arriva was awarded a further five-year contract for the Greenline 757 route with a potential extension of an additional two years. At that time, the operator said it would explore and trial new technologies to improve the service, “especially for the environment.”
Head of Commercial – East and South Midlands Toby France describes the Yutong GTe14 trial as “a crucial milestone” in the Arriva journey to net-zero.
He notes that while the business has already introduced battery-electric buses to networks in the UK and continental Europe, the Luton evaluation will be the first time it uses the technology on a 24/7 coach service.
“The scheme will allow us to explore the opportunities and practical considerations of deploying EVs as we envision the next generation of our renowned Greenline coaches,” Mr France continues.
“This is a pivotal project for Arriva and supports our partnership with London Luton Airport in making public transport more attractive, sustainable and efficient for passengers and staff travelling to and from the airport.”
London Luton Airport Chief Commercial Office Jonny Rayner observes that sustainable connectivity is key to the air hub’s plans.
“As we continue to identify new ways to provide even greater choice, the trial of a zero-emission electric vehicle on this important route represents a major milestone for Arriva, London Luton Airport, and the thousands of passengers who use the service each year.”
