First Bus Commits £89 Million to Launch Bus Charging Depots Across England

First Bus is advancing its shift to sustainable transportation by expanding its collaboration with Heliox, a leading provider of rapid charging systems, to establish five new electric bus depots across the UK. Located in Bristol, Weston-super-Mare, Minehead, Taunton, and Basildon, these facilities are part of an £89 million initiative funded by First Bus with additional support from the UK Government's ZEBRA 2 funding program.

These new depots boast a collective capacity for charging over 190 vehicles simultaneously, marking a significant step towards achieving First Bus's goal of operating a fully zero-emission fleet. This expansion builds on the success of the UK's largest electric bus depot, launched in Glasgow before the COP26 summit in 2021, which can charge 178 vehicles at once.

Since that launch, First Bus and Heliox have diligently expanded their network, now operating nine electric bus charging depots throughout Scotland and England. Additionally, the Summercourt hub in Cornwall enhances public access to rapid charging facilities, accommodating buses, electric cars, and vans. This network underscores First Bus's commitment to clean energy and enhances the infrastructure supporting the broader adoption of electric vehicles in the UK.

Stephen Wood, Heliox Country Manager UK & Ireland, said, "The huge £89m investment from First Bus and support from the ZEBRA 2 funding programme has enabled us to play a vital role in accelerating the transition to electric public transport, particularly in rural areas.

"These new charging depots will be instrumental in achieving this goal."

Faizan Ahmad, First Bus's Decarbonisation Programme Director, said, "Our partnership with Heliox has enabled us to electrify our depots and introduce cutting-edge electric buses, delivering cleaner air and a better passenger experience.

"As a leader in sustainable transport, we're committed to working with both central and local governments to support national decarbonisation goals and encourage more people to choose bus travel."