Wednesday 20 November saw the first Irizar ieTram electric buses with pantograph charging introduced to one of London’s longest bus routes, route 358 between Crystal Palace and Orpington. The pantograph allows fast, high-power charging of the new buses at each end of the 15-mile journey in as little as six minutes. They join around 1,700 electric buses already in service in London.
Director of Buses at TfL Lorna Murphy said: “The harmful effects of toxic air pollution in the capital are known to contribute to thousands of premature deaths and serious health conditions. Londoners deserve to breathe clean air, and it is vital that we continue to deliver solutions to address this. Installing new rapid-charging pantograph infrastructure on one of London’s longest bus routes is an innovative step forward, helping us to run cleaner, greener services that get Londoners where they need to be.
“Working with partners across a range of different sectors on this project, we are showcasing how the broader shift to net zero can be achieved. The move to increase the number of zero-emission buses on the capital’s streets is a key part of the Mayor’s goal to make London a zero carbon city.”
Tom Joyner, Managing Director of Go-Ahead London, which is operating the new buses, said: “I am incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made this year in our journey toward a zero-emission future. Go-Ahead London is leading the way in driving the transition to zero-emission buses, with 636 electric vehicles now operating across our network. This includes the exciting launch of the 358 route and the expansion of our pantograph technology, both strong testaments to our commitment to cleaner air and healthier communities.
“From 2024 to 2026 Go-Ahead Group will be investing £500 million to introduce even more electric buses, focusing on London, in support of TfL’s net-zero targets. Our partnership with TfL ensures we can continue to serve our communities while setting new industry standards for sustainability. Together, we are not only transforming public transport but also creating a lasting positive impact.”
Liam Conlon, Member of Parliament for Beckenham and Penge, added: “It’s fantastic to see the Mayor introducing these new zero-emission buses. They are the first buses of their kind in the UK, and I’m delighted it’s on the 358 route that runs through Beckenham and Penge. Local residents will benefit from safer travel and cleaner air as a result.
“In the months since being elected, people have made it clear to me that a greener London and improved road safety are top of their priority lists. That’s why seeing the new 358 bus hit the roads is such a welcome sight.
“Today’s launch represents great progress and shows what a greener, fairer London looks like in action. I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor and our new Government to build on it.”
