Go North East trials electric double-decker

News stories are free to read. Click here for full access to all the features, articles and archive from only £8.99.

The north-east operator has trialled its first electric double-decker, as part of plans to further electrification of its fleet

Go North East undertook a week of trials with the Wrightbus Electroliner battery-electric double-decker on its Angel 21 route from Monday 28 February. With a claimed range of 200 miles and a fast charge time of 2.5 hours, Go North East said it hopes that through further electric bus trials, it can help shape future investment strategies as it looks to a fully zero-emission fleet of battery or hydrogen buses by 2035, and to become a net zero business by 2045.

Martijn Gilbert, Go North East Managing Director, said: “Buses play a vital role in keeping our towns and cities moving, and we’re committed to improving the service we offer to help reduce congestion and improve air quality. Whilst the bus industry continues to face challenges with reduced passenger numbers and revenue, it’s important that we don’t lose sight of the future and that we continue to innovate and make progress with even greener buses.

“This electric bus trial will help shape our plans for the future of our fleet. The interior layout, including the seats, on this bus is a standard build from the manufacturer and should we buy any then they would be customised to our usual standards.”

The Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner demonstrator. GNE