Glasgow gets new electric open-top fleet

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City Sightseeing has launched its new fleet of electric tour buses. RICHARD WALTER

West Coast Motors is introducing 10 new Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner battery-electric open-top double-deckers to its City Sightseeing Glasgow operation for the upcoming summer season.

The new vehicles are to be deployed on the operator’s red route, and started being delivered in February with the support of £2.4 million from the Scottish Zero Emission Bus (ScotZEB) fund.

“Our decision to transition to electric buses is not just a step forward, it’s a testament to our dedication to meeting Scotland’s ambitious environmental goals. With 10 electric buses joining our fleet, all set to serve our tours throughout the seasons, we’re excited to pave the way for a greener, cleaner future in tourism,” the operator said. “The benefits of this transition extend far beyond reducing our carbon footprint. By embracing electric buses, we’re taking tangible steps to lower air pollution, decrease noise levels, and minimise fuel consumption. These eco-friendly vehicles not only align with Glasgow’s sustainability initiatives but also promise a more pleasant and comfortable experience for our valued visitors.”

The operator recently expanded its offering in the Scottish city to include a new yellow route, building on its original red route which operates all year round and covers the west and central areas of the city including landmarks such as Glasgow Cathedral, the Riverside Museum and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. The new summer-only yellow route adds locations including the Tennent’s Brewery, Celtic Park football stadium and Glasgow Science Centre.