First has introduced hybrid buses to routes 75 and 76 (Maidenhead/ Slough – Heathrow), which started operating on Saturday, April 20.
A total of 10 brand new Volvo 7900Hs will enter service on the 7-series network. A special launch event was held at Heathrow Airport on Thursday, April 18 and included a demonstration ride aboard one of the new hybrids.
First operates the 7-series in partnership with Heathrow, Slough Borough Council and the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead. The purchase of the vehicles has been made possible following an award of £884,000 from the DfT’s Green Bus Fund (Round 3).
“The 7-series services between Slough and Heathrow are very important for workers at the airport and also those flying on business or leisure,” said Matthew Wooll, Revenue & Marketing Manager at First. “Our customers are at the heart of the business and these buses demonstrate First’s ongoing commitment to providing the right services for them, while reducing our impact on the environment.”
Allan Gregory, Surface Access Director for Heathrow added: “These services are vital for air passengers and staff at Heathrow, but also for those who use the airport as a hub for bus and coach travel. We want our transport to be sustainable, which is why we’ve invested £750m in subsidised public transport and sustainable travel initiatives.
“These new buses mean a third of the 7-series fleet to Heathrow are now hybrids with the remainder being Euro 5.”
