Solent from First Bus has put into service four buses converted from diesel to electric power on routes across Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport.
The conversion process – undertaken by UK bus manufacturer Wrightbus – involved taking out the diesel engine and replacing it with an electric powertrain in a fraction of the time and cost of manufacturing an electric bus.
By repurposing existing diesel vehicles and refurbishing them to a near-new standard, First Bus is extending their lifespan while avoiding the environmental impact associated with disposing of them.
First Bus is initially introducing 32 repowers across four regions of the UK.
It comes one year after the electrification of First Bus’s Hoeford depot in Fareham, and the successful introduction of 62 new electric buses in Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport, in partnership with Portsmouth City Council and Hampshire County Council.
The introduction of these electric vehicles is part of First Bus’s wider strategy to transition to a fully zero-emission fleet by 2035.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Portsmouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport said, “The success of electric buses in Portsmouth has already shown how quieter, cleaner, and greener travel benefits our city.
“Cost-effectively re-powering these buses from diesel to electric is a smart way to bring forward another step in our commitment to deliver affordable, sustainable, and zero-emission transport for everyone.”
Gary Weaver, First Bus South’s Engineering Director, said, “This initiative not only provides a second life for existing vehicles but also delivers a low-carbon, sustainable transport option that benefits both passengers and the wider community.
“At First Bus, we are committed to leading the way in the transition to greener public transport, and this project is another example of how we are making that happen.”
