Operator First Bus has launched First Charge, the new identity for its growing, shared EV charging initiative.
The scheme includes 15 of its depots in Scotland and England, with its Caledonia depot in Glasgow the first to offer in-depot charging to the general public.
This site, located minutes from Glasgow city centre and supported by on-site staff, offers charging for consumers as well as business fleets with a range of payment options.
These include contactless and roaming cards and apps such as Fuuse, Paua, Electroverse, and Allstar.
First Bus already shares its depot-based charging facilities with fleets across the UK, including DPD, Centrica, Openreach, and Police Scotland.
The depots feature high-powered EV chargers ranging from 150kW to 350kW, which is generated by renewable power, with sites located across the UK to support operational flexibility and maximise vehicle uptime.
Isabel McAllister, First Bus UK chief sustainability and compliance officer, said demand continues to grow for private and pre-arranged access at First Charge locations, particularly among operators in the eHGV sector and other passenger transport services.
She added, “At First Bus, we’re progressing rapidly towards our goal of a zero-emission fleet by 2035, with an investment of over £320 million to date.
“With First Charge, we’re building on our position as an industry leader, sharing our infrastructure to accelerate decarbonisation to help other users move faster too.”
Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said, “I’m pleased that the First Bus Caledonia Depot is opening its doors to people and communities by providing ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging at affordable pricing.”
