National Express West Midlands (NXWM) is converting route 50 – which runs between Birmingham and Druids Heath – to its highly-successful Platinum standard with a batch of Alexander Dennis Enviro400s.
Described as one of the busiest bus routes in Europe, the 50 carries over 5.5m passengers per year. Its upgrade is part of a £22m investment by NXWM in 75 new buses.
Says Commercial Director Nick Vane: “We already know that customers love Platinum, which has extra leg room, free wi-fi and USB charging points.
“When we asked them what they thought, overall satisfaction across all Platinum routes was 94%. Where we’ve converted routes to Platinum, we’ve attracted new customers.
“These buses are our pledge as part of the West Midlands Bus Alliance: To increase the number of people taking the bus, to keep our customers happy and to keep the air clean across the West Midlands.”
NXWM’s Platinum concept has grown to encompass many corridors in the region. It extends from Leamington Spa in the south to Burntwood and Cannock in the north, with most routes serving Birmingham city centre. Standard fares are charged.
