First Glasgow has announced plans to invest millions in more ultra-low emission vehicles, with additional funding being granted from the Scottish Green Bus Fund.
It is part of a plan for 430 new buses under the Glasgow Low Emission Zone scheme.
The business plans to invest in another 75 new ultra-low emission Euro 6 buses for Glasgow in 2019, which includes £400k of investment from the Green Bus Fund and an additional £16.35m investment from First Bus. This follows from £14m of investment in 2018,.
Andrew Jarvis, MD First Scotland met Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson to mark the latest award from the Scottish Green Bus Fund.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson said: “It is good news that First Bus continue to invest in a modern fleet, manufactured here in Scotland, in partnership with Alexander Dennis. It is encouraging that First Bus have been able to take advantage of funds provided through the Scottish Government Green Bus Fund and move to new buses which offer significant carbon savings over the existing fleet.
“These new vehicles will help improve air quality and support the low emission zone which will shortly commence in Glasgow. The buses offer significant improvements in amenities and facilities, which I’m confident will help attract new customers, as well as being enjoyed by regular passengers. This is a positive step in our ambition to develop a low carbon economy.
“Buses have an important role in being part of the solution to improving air quality in our towns and cities. I welcome this investment by First Bus, which supports this government’s sustainable transport ambitions, as well as being great news for the people of Glasgow and beyond.”
Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director for First Glasgow, adds: “We are committed to working with Glasgow City Council, Transport Scotland and the Cabinet Minister to improve the city’s bus services. The bus is very much part of the solution when it comes to reducing emissions on our already congested roads as one full low emission bus can take up to 75 cars off the road.
“By deploying our new Euro VI technology vehicles that offer more comfort and are eco-friendlier we are headed in the right direction, but I know that a lot more can be achieved with strong working partnerships as we look to make public transport a more attractive alternative to the car for more people.
“In addition to the 75 Glasgow vehicles, First Bus in Scotland will also be working with Scottish Power Energy Networks to introduce two electric vehicles to the city of Glasgow, as well as continuing to work with Aberdeen City Council on the next phase of Hydrogen bus deployment in Aberdeen.”
Keith Watson, Customer Development Director at ADL, stated: “We’re delighted to be partnering with First Glasgow to bring ultra-low emission Euro 6 and electric vehicles to the streets of Scotland’s biggest city. These Enviro double and single deck vehicles not only respond to stringent environmental demands but also to passengers’ increasing expectations thanks to premium onboard specifications and features. We look forward to continuing to work with First Glasgow on their journey to improve air quality in and around the city.”
