National Express Coventry has officially launched its first electric buses in partnership with battery storage operator Zenobe Energy.
Linking the city centre and University Hospital, the 10 BYD ADL Enviro400EV buses will begin operating on Sunday 30 August.
The move brings National Express Group another step closer to its pledge, made earlier this year, to transition to a fully zero emission UK bus fleet by 2030.
Zenobe, which powers 25% of the EV bus market in the UK, is providing National Express Coventry with its end-to-end solution, including batteries, the charging system at the depot with 10 dedicated rapid chargers and a software platform which helps monitor and optimise energy use.
National Express Group’s first 19 Zenobe-powered buses were launched on National Express West Midlands’ number 6 service between Birmingham city centre and Solihull last month.
Steven Meersman, co-founder of Zenobe Energy, said: “We are delighted to see our partnership with National Express help improve air quality in Coventry. Our solution is helping Coventry and National Express meet net-zero commitments, reduce pollution and ultimately save lives.
“Our service-based model means we’re there for our partners throughout the journey, not just on day one. During an uncertain period, we hope our work alongside transport operators can help ensure that the UK continues working towards a cleaner, greener future.”
Martin Hancock, Development Director at National Express Bus, said: “In our ambition to become the UK’s most sustainable transport company, National Express Bus has set itself the bold target of having a fully zero emission fleet by 2030.
“To achieve this in such a timescale, we need to be innovative. It’s absolutely critical that we deliver for our customers. We need a reliable solution so we know our buses will start in the morning – every morning. So we are very pleased to be partnering with Zenobe in our electrification of our bus depot.
“By collaborating with Zenobe, we have been able to utilise a professional turnkey solution that has clearly demonstrated their position as a market leader in the field of battery supported charging infrastructure.”
