A new fleet of Volvo electric buses has entered service in the Scottish capital
The first of Lothian’s new fleet of electric double-deck buses entered service in the Scottish capital on Sunday 8 September, marking what the company called an important milestone in its 105-year history.
The Volvo BZL buses will be operating initially on the operator’s routes 8 and 9 routes, and feature WiFi, high-back seats and USB charging points. Each vehicle also includes two wheelchair spaces, and has a capacity of over 70 passengers.
An investment of more than £24 million, the buses represent Lothian’s commitment to introduce cleaner, greener buses into its fleet, one aspect of a wider strategy to achieve net zero emissions by 2035. The business has installed the necessary charging infrastructure at its main depot in the city’s Annandale Street to support the new vehicles, with future plans to ‘electrify’ other depots set out in its ‘Driving towards Net Zero’ environmental strategy.
Managing Director at Lothian Sarah Boyd said: “Lothian’s decarbonisation strategy has a massive role to play in reaching local and national government climate change targets to safeguard our environment while bringing wider social, health and economic benefits for the city. From a customer experience perspective, these new buses will provide visitors and residents with quieter, comfortable journeys. From our drivers’ perspectives, they will enjoy an enhanced driver workspace with improved vision in all conditions thanks to a camera-based mirror system.
“I am excited to see the first of these vehicles hit the streets of Scotland’s capital in a monumental moment in Lothian’s 105-year history and look forward to the new chapter of our net zero journey.”
Managing Director of Volvo Bus UK & Ireland Domenico Bondi added: “It’s great to see the Volvo BZL Electric double-deckers in Lothian’s signature maroon and white livery, especially in the beautiful historic surroundings of Scotland’s capital. We’re proud to be able to support Lothian’s ambitious net-zero strategy with these vehicles and, in turn, help to provide a cleaner environment for the people of Edinburgh.”
Edinburgh City Council Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson commented: “I’m delighted that Lothian is rolling out their new fully electric double decker buses across our network. This is a proud moment for the Capital as we step up our sustainable travel and keep on track to becoming a net zero city. Affordable, efficient and green public transport is key for any modern and forward-thinking city and this shows that we take our responsibilities to our residents, visitors and the wider environment seriously.”
