McGill’s, Scotland’s largest independent bus operator, has taken delivery of a zero local-emission bus, which is being trialled on its 38 route into Glasgow City Centre.
The electric bus was built by Yutong, China’s largest bus and coach manufacturer, and McGill’s partnered up with its sole UK and Ireland distributor, Pelican Bus & Coach, to gain feedback on customer perception and to trial drivability and operating costs.
The single-decker features no engine noise or vibration, resulting in a better passenger experience, as well as a greatly reduced impact on the environment.
80% of McGill’s current fleet is Euro IV and above; the new Yutong is part of its greening strategy, which also coincides with Glasgow’s low emission zone strategy.
Ralph Roberts, McGill’s Managing Director, said: “McGill’s was the first Euro VI bus operator in Glasgow back in 2014, and this is the first electric bus of this size and durability in Glasgow.
“However, it’s not about being first, I want to slash our impact upon the environment as quickly as possible and am very keen to see if this Yutong bus is the product to help us do that. Early indications are certainly very good.”
McGill’s On-street team Manager, Stephen Docherty, commented: “I really enjoyed driving it. It’s strange at first as there is no noise at all, but I got used to it very quickly and it was extremely smooth.
“I’ve spoken to customers who have travelled on this bus and they praised the comfortable and quiet journey to and from Glasgow – they gave it a big thumbs up as have our drivers.”
Ian Downie, head of Yutong Bus at Pelican Bus & Coach said: “We are delighted that an innovative company such as McGill’s is demonstrating our fully zero local-emission vehicle in Glasgow, to illustrate the benefit of the local air quality that can be provided.”
