Wakefield-based Pelican Engineering reports that it has secured additional funding from HSBC UK to increase its ability to supply electric buses and coaches. The family-owned company says it is set to supply an extra 780 battery electric vehicles from Yutong to UK operators in the coming year, which will be supported by an eight-figure increase to an existing HSBC UK green trade facility at the business, additional funding which Pelican says positions it as one of the largest zero-emission bus suppliers in the UK.
Managing Director Richard Crump said: “Not only is this a very significant step for our business, but also for the decarbonisation of UK bus and coach fleets. In recent years, we’ve seen continuous growth in demand for electric vehicles, as more operators have invested in depot charging capabilities and made long-term strategic commitments to replace diesel buses supported by ambitious government funding.
“To harness this momentum and support this transition throughout the sector, we need dependable and reliable vehicles that deliver best in class performance and consumption at a competitive price. This is why we feel our partnership with Yutong is so important for the future of UK transport. Having just renewed our exclusive long term distribution agreement with Yutong, we look forward to getting more zero-emission vehicles on UK roads. “I am also hugely grateful for HSBC UK’s continued confidence and support for our business.”
Corporate Relationship Director at HSBC UK Jamie McCullough added: “The UK bus and coach sector is a genuine success story we should be celebrating. The industry is an example of Britian being a stand-out international leader, with operators adopting zero emissions that reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in our towns and cities. Pelican has played a big part in the transition of this sector so it’s fantastic to extend our support for the business, as it continues to play a significant role in decarbonising the future of UK travel.”
