The main political parties have published their manifestos. Predictably, buses are mentioned. It’s necessary to ignore the fluff of politicians to form a picture of what the future may hold for buses.
One party will give local authorities powers they already have. Another is unaware of the terminology used to describe emission control zones outside London. Nevertheless, it will introduce more of them.
Two subjects are prominent, however: Funding and electrification. They are linked. More money will no doubt be welcome, if it is administered fairly. That electrification is mentioned is also unsurprising.
It is clear that electric power is largely where buses’ future in urban environments lies. Mileages are generally low and when infrastructure challenges are addressed vehicles available today can accommodate most daily duties on a single charge.
Where work on electrification is still needed is in rural areas. They represent a much longer-term aspiration for transition, but without major investment a wholesale switch seems difficult, if not impossible.
One operator of demand-responsive services – something else that politicians are keen to see grow, even if they get no mention in manifestos – notes the difficulty it would have with electrification.
Its services run in largely rural areas. They have neither fixed routes nor timetables. On busy days its vehicles cover over 300 miles. Achieving that range in a van chassis is years away, if it ever happens at all.
How to plan daytime recharging under those circumstances?
Politicians promising money is great news. But they need to work with those who know the industry best to direct it to the areas that need it most.
