Lothian Buses placed the first of 50 Volvo BZL battery-electric double-deckers into service on Sunday 8 September.
The vehicles will initially operate on route 8 between Muirhouse and Royal Infirmary, and on route 9 between Muirhouse and King’s Buildings. They have high-backed seats and space for two wheelchair users.
Work has been underway at the operator’s Central depot in Annandale Street to prepare for the buses’ arrival. Charging infrastructure will allow their 470kWh of battery storage to be replenished in three to four hours. The BZL has a 200kW motor and a two-speed automated manual gearbox. Up to 300km will be possible on one charge.
More than £24 million is being invested in the BZL project by Lothian. It forms part of the municipal operator’s commitment to introduce greener buses to ifs fleet and underpins part of a wider strategy to achieve net-zero-emissions by 2035. Plans are in hand to electrify other depots beyond Central.
Speaking about the BZL service entry, Lothian Managing Director Sarah Boyd says: “Lothian’s decarbonisation strategy has a massive role to play in reaching local and national government climate targets to safeguard our environment while bringing wider social, health and economic benefits for the city.
“From a customer experience perspective, these new buses will provide visitors and residents with quieter, comfortable journeys. From our drivers’ perspective, they will enjoy an enhanced workspace with improved vision in all conditions thanks to a camera-based mirror system.
“I am excited to see the first of these vehicles hit the streets of Scotland’s capital in a monumental moment in Lothian’s 105-year history and look forward to the new chapter of our net-zero journey.”
Volvo Bus UK and Ireland is supplying the BZL buses to Lothian. Managing Director Domenico Bondi adds: “It is great to see the Volvo BZL electric double-deckers in Lothian’s signature maroon and white livery, especially in the beautiful historic surroundings of Scotland’s capital.
“We are proud to be able to support Lothian’s ambitious net-zero strategy with these vehicles, and in turn, help to provide a cleaner environment for the people of Edinburgh.”
