Newport Transport has further expanded its fleet of Yutong battery-electric vehicles with arrival of the first zero-emission coaches in Wales in four TCe12 models.
The PSVAR compliant examples each have 46 seats and a toilet. They have been deployed into the operator’s growing coach operation. Dual doors are fitted with wheelchair user access at the centre.
281kW/h of energy capacity is fitted which the operator expects will deliver a range of over 200 miles. Newport Transport will use the electric coaches on private hire and day trips and on behalf of education and other clients in South East Wales. They join an extensive Yutong battery-electric bus fleet that will welcome two U11DD double-deckers in due course.
Speaking about the purchase, Newport Transport Managing Director Scott Pearson (pictured below, right) says: “Our EV fleet is already leading the way in Wales, bringing improvement to air quality across the city and surrounding areas.
“With the introduction of electric coaches, we continue to show our commitment to providing innovative, environmentally sustainable transport solution for South Wales.”
Mr Pearson adds that the operator is looking forward to further collaboration with Pelican Bus and Coach, Yutong and Zenobe “as we work towards our vision of a net zero fleet.”
Zenobe’s battery and vehicle financing solutions are supporting the coaches. That will “guarantee the health and performance of each onboard battery for the next 16 years,” says Zenobe Co-Founder and Director Steven Meersman. They will use charging equipment at the Corporation Road depot that is already operated and maintained by Zenobe.
Head of Yutong UK Ian Downie (pictured above, centre) adds that the TCe12s represent the fourth tranche of Yutong vehicles to arrive with Newport Transport. The municipal was also the UK’s first buyer of battery-electric buses from the marque. “The relationship continues to prosper for the benefit of Newport’s population,” Mr Downie adds.
