First electric buses hit the streets of Norwich
Seven brand new electric double deckers have been launched in the city
Norwich's first electric buses have hit the streets of the city today.
The seven zero-emissions double deckers are operated by First Bus, and are in service across the Pink, Red, Orange and Blue lines.
They are the first of a new fleet of 70 electric vehicles being rolled out over the coming months, replacing the old diesel buses which currently serve the city.
All are built by British firm Wrightbus, and are funded by around £15m of government money, coupled with £23m from First Bus.
Piers Marlow, Managing Director of First East of England, said: “It’s incredibly exciting, after all the hard work and planning that has gone into this project so far, that the first EVs are out on the roads to serve customers in Norwich.
“These vehicles offer significant environmental benefits, saving around 75 tonnes of CO2 per vehicle per year when compared to a diesel, and will improve the air quality for the City’s residents and visitors as they emit zero tailpipe emissions.
“Importantly, they will also improve the journey experience for our customers, and are fitted with all the modern features, offering a quieter and smoother ride, USB charging points, and good accessibility features.
"We hope that Norwich’s bus users are as pleased with them as we are.”
Norfolk County Council Cabinet member for transport Graham Plant said:
“The arrival of these buses is an extraordinary boost to our ambitions to run a net-zero transport system in Norfolk and I am excited to see that the first buses are now out in service for people to experience."
"The support that First Bus has shown for this project demonstrates the excellent working relationship we have with our bus operators here in Norfolk and how working together can help to achieve the very best for our County.”