First Bus has introduced four battery-electric repowers converted by Wrightbus subsidiary NewPower to its Solent operation.
The former diesel-powered StreetDeck double-deckers are being used across Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport, having been “fully refurbished to a near-new standard”, according to the operator.
First Bus was the first operator to place an order with NewPower when it launched last summer, with 32 buses converted for operation in five regions across the UK.
The launch of the repowers comes a year after the first of a fleet of 62 Wrightbus GB Kite Electroliner battery-electric buses were put into service by First Solent from the newly electrified Hoeford depot.
Gary Weaver, First Bus South’s Engineering Director, says: “We are proud to introduce these four converted electric buses to Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport.
“This initiative not only provides a second life for existing vehicles but also delivers a low-carbon, sustainable transport option that benefits both passengers and the wider community.
“At First Bus, we are committed to leading the way in the transition to greener public transport, and this project is another example of how we are making that happen.”
The repowers are part of First Bus’s wider strategy to convert to a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, adds: “The success of electric buses in Portsmouth has already shown how quieter, cleaner, and greener travel benefits our city.
“Cost-effectively re-powering these buses from diesel to electric is a smart way to bring forward another step in our commitment to deliver affordable, sustainable, and zero-emission transport for everyone.”
