First Bus is investing £12.7 million in a fleet of 36 electric buses in Aberdeen to be deployed on routes serving Robert Gordon University.
The new fleet, which will consist of 24 WrightBus double deckers and 12 repowers – traditional internal combustion engine buses converted to electric buses – forms part of the more than £100m investment announced by First Bus across the UK for 2024/25.
They are due to join the Aberdeen fleet from the beginning of 2025, as First Bus aims to achieve a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035, in line with COP26 commitments.
Since COP26, First Bus has made significant strides towards its goals, including the transformation of its Caledonia depot in Glasgow into the UK’s largest electric vehicle charging hub, capable of charging 150 electric buses simultaneously.
Duncan Cameron, Managing Director at First Bus Scotland, said, “This £12.7 million investment in new electric buses is a game-changer for Aberdeen.
“It not only aligns with our green ambitions but also underscores our commitment to providing more sustainable and comfortable transportation options for the city.”
Bill Sommerville, Director of Estates and Property Services, Robert Gordon University (RGU), said, “RGU is pleased to be partnering with First Bus on the launch of their new EV buses that will both reduce commuting transport emissions in the city and provide our staff and students with a stress-free sustainable commute.
“It is encouraging to partner with a like-minded local organisation who is also committed to reaching net zero emissions for the city and we are delighted that these new vehicles’ primary route will be to and from our Garthdee campus.”
