Xplore Dundee launch fleet of zero-emission buses
A new fleet of electric buses have boosted Dundee's plans to reach net zero emissions by 2045
Xplore Dundee have officially launched their new fleet of 12 zero emissions all electric buses, and already have a bid in for another ten.
They will be driving the 28 service which includes Lochee road, one of the most polluted streets in Scotland.
The low-emission busses will be part of the number 28 service, a route at the heart of the city, and this £7m investment will see many communities benefit from cleaner air and brand new hi-spec buses.
Their deployment also supports the wider net zero ambitions of McGill’s, the owners of Xplore, Dundee and the rest of Scotland.
Managing Director of Xplore Dundee Christine McGlasson said: “This is a milestone moment for us at Xplore Dundee – we are so proud to bring these electric double deckers to Dundee, the first of their kind for the city.
“Our fleet is now three-quarters low or zero emission. We believe that buses are the solution to pollution and as part of the McGill’s Group, we intend to continue investing in our fleet to provide a cleaner, greener public transport offering to the people of Dundee.”
The dozen vehicles to be used in Dundee will arrive on site by the end of the month, with a view to hitting the streets early in January 2022 once driver training is complete.
£7 million has been invested in these new vehicles and the associated charging infrastructure for the Dundee depot and McGill’s has big plans to continue to upgrade and modernise the Xplore fleet.
James Easdale, chair of McGill’s Group, said: “We led the way in introducing clean Euro VI fleet and by the end of 2021, the McGill’s Group is operating more electric buses than any other company in Scotland.
"We firmly believe the new electric fleet will entice more people to leave their car keys at home and switch to the bus. Electric buses bring a new level of passenger experience, including air conditioning and USB charging, coupled with a whisper quiet journey. It’s an exciting time for McGill’s as we continue to invest and grow the business even further.”
“This is the beginning of a significant shift towards zero emission public transport in Dundee and we’re very proud to be at the forefront of that.”
Mark Flynn convener of Dundee City Council’s city development committee said: “As a city we have been at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution and are gaining recognition for our ambition and vision worldwide.
“The council itself has a fleet of more than 150 EVs, the most of any UK local authority, but to improve air quality and with it the health outcomes for our communities we must all act together.
“That is why I am delighted to welcome a further 12 electric buses to the streets of Dundee, which means that a significant number of public transport journeys will be made with zero emissions.”