Six Wrightbus GB Kite Electroliner battery-electric single-deck buses have been ordered by Transport for Wales (TfW) in what are understood to be the first zero-emission vehicles from the Northern Irish manufacturer bought for service in the country.
They are due to be delivered in 2027 for use on local services in Powys, the builder has advised. Representatives from TfW have visited the Wrightbus factory in Ballymena to meet members of the manufacturer’s specification team and begin work on the new electric buses.
An order from TfW for electric buses on regular services comes as bus franchising in Wales approaches. It also follows widespread recent investment in the TrawsCymru long-distance bus fleet in Wales. That is already served by a number of Yutong battery-electrics, while 30 new diesel buses built by Volvo and Wrightbus are in the process of entering service.
In addition, eight Volvo B8R MCV Evotor coaches have been procured for the new north-south express link that will commence later this year.
The recent Wrightbus arrivals for TrawsCymru use are 14 Wrightbus StreetDeck Ultroliners, split between Lloyds Coaches of Machynlleth (six) and Arriva Cymru (eight). Volvo B8RLE deliveries have been made to operators including Celtic Travel of Llanidloes, K&P Coaches of Bangor, and Richards Bros of Cardigan.
The Welsh Government notes how Wales has the oldest bus fleet in the UK. Investment in the 30 new diesels supports a commitment to “a greener, more accessible transport network for all, reducing congestion and cutting carbon emissions,” it says.
TfW Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration Lee Robinson adds that work to procure new diesel and electric buses is helping preparations for an integrated and franchised bus network in Wales. He notes how the new diesel buses will deliver more comfortable, higher-quality journeys for customers.
“Crucially, they will also help to strengthen access to essential services, including healthcare, education, leisure and employment, opening up greater opportunities for communities across the country,” Mr Robinson continues.
