Arriva UK Bus is to benefit from ZEBRA funding in two regions. Through a partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) over the last nine months, Arriva has secured funding towards the purchase of 47 new electric double-deckers for its Wakefield operations. At the same time, a partnership bid with Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) has resulted in funding for 27 single decker electric buses in Stevenage. In both regions, the ZEBRA funding also includes contributions towards the upgrade of depots and associated charging infrastructure.
Managing Director of Arriva UK Bus Paul O’Neil said: “We are thrilled to have successfully partnered with WYCA and HCC to win this significant ZEBRA funding. By working together on our shared commitments to a more sustainable future for transport we will accelerate the transition of our fleet in West Yorkshire and Hertfordshire, bringing benefits for our passengers, our clients and the environment.”
Arriva has previously supported other local authorities in securing funding in ZEBRA’s fast track round in 2021, with successful bid applications with Milton Keynes, Kent and Leicester which could see a total of 105 electric buses introduced on its routes in those areas by the end of 2023.
The ZEBRA funding covers 75% of the uplift in costs between diesel and electric vehicles and infrastructure, while Arriva will contribute the remaining 25%, along with 100% of the equivalent price of diesel buses. Its 74 new electric vehicles will feature increased wheelchair space and hearing aid loops.
