Research by fleet electrification specialist VEV has found that 78% of coach and bus drivers it questioned prefer piloting electric vehicles over diesel examples, with 87% citing reduced cab noise as the primary benefit.
In addition, 67% of survey participants reported lower fatigue behind the wheel with an electric vehicle, while 65% said that they are comfortable across a full shift. Drivers of all ages expressed support for the move to electric, VEV says.
On a wider basis, the research found that 75% of respondents reported an improvement in passenger comfort with electric and 90% saw neutral or positive reaction from travellers, driven by quieter, smoother and cleaner journeys.
The results came from an online survey of 114 coach and bus drivers conducted between 10 May and 9 June.
Speaking about the work, VEV Commercial and Marketing Director Sam Hoyland says: “What is striking about these findings is that they come from the people who spend all day behind the wheel. Drivers are telling us that electric buses create a better working environment with less fatigue, less noise, and a smoother overall experience.
“The conversation around electrification often focuses on environmental targets and technology, but this research shows there is also a very human story. The people operating these vehicles every day are overwhelmingly positive about the experience, and that is an important signal for the future of public transport.”
Campaign for Better Transport Director of Policy and Research Silviya Barrett has welcomed the findings, noting how electric buses’ benefits to the environment and air quality are well known and that “they also have the potential to transform how people experience public transport.”
She continues: “When public transport becomes a more attractive option, it helps people to stay connected to work, education and healthcare, and to one another. That is vital for building stronger, more inclusive communities and ensuring that everyone can access the opportunities they need to thrive.”
