First Bus has committed to its operations being net zero by 2050 and to running a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035, including orders for 193 electric buses in England so far. The firm has selected electrification specialist Ampcontrol to further support the electrification of its fleets, a partnership first launched in November last year in its Caledonia depot in Glasgow. Caledonia depot already has 160 dual-headed DC fast chargers and will soon have 150 electric buses in service. Ampcontrol will focus on optimising the energy costs while ensuring high uptime and on-time departure of all buses for their next duty.
“We are excited to facilitate First Bus’ strong sustainability vision and help it reach its net-zero target with a smart and reliable solution. This partnership will enable the most advanced energy optimisation for buses in the UK. First Bus’ vision and belief in fleet electrification already sets it apart from other bus operators worldwide, and I believe our solution will significantly increase its value proposition.” said Joachim Lohse, CEO and founder of Ampcontrol.
Duncan Cameron, Managing Director of First Bus Scotland, added: “We are delighted to welcome Ampcontrol as a partner for our Caledonia depot, the UK’s largest EV charging hub. We are about to welcome our 150th electric vehicle to the depot which will serve the people of Glasgow every day, and Ampcontrol’s cutting-edge technology will align with our other partners to help us continue towards our ‘Zero Emission Mission’ for 2035.”
