Metroline, part of the ComfortDelGro Group, has launched its first electric bus outside of London. The new zero-emission single-deck bus on has entered into service, operating from Metroline’s Potters Bar bus garage on route PB1, and Metroline says it will play a key role in the county’s drive towards a cleaner, greener, healthier Hertfordshire.
The new electric bus was decided upon as part of Metroline’s renewed agreement with Hertfordshire County Council to continue to operate the route in Potters Bar and the surrounding area, supported by Metroline’s experience as the operator of a fleet which already includes 90 electric vehicles and 20 hydrogen powered ones.
First launched in 1977, route PB1 is described as essential for the people of Potters Bar. Starting and terminating at Potters Bar railway station, it has 32 stops with a total journey time of just under 30 minutes, serving the town’s High Street and giving access to local shopping, a doctor’s surgery and other amenities.
The new bus was delivered by Switch Mobility, which previously supplied Metroline with double deck electric buses for its route 134. Built to order, it is a able to seat up to 24 passengers and has a forecast range of at least 150 miles on a single charge.
The bus is charged by the same power supplies that serve the other electric buses at Potters Bar garage, with charging taking place during the night and other periods of low local demand in order to ensure the garage’s energy demand remains moderate.
Speaking about the launch of the bus, Andrew Hunter, Group Performance & Commercial Development Director at Metroline, said: “We are delighted to be launching our first electric bus outside of London into service on route PB1. As our first electric bus on Hertfordshire’s roads, we are proud Metroline is able to play a role in making the county more environmentally friendly, and helping to keep the air clean for our customers and residents. Over the last three years we have been industry leaders in electric and hydrogen vehicles, and our engineering teams are experienced in working with zero-emission, pollution free vehicles, and are confident in maintaining a high quality electric experience for our customers who use the route.”
