First Bus unveils converted electric buses

The UK's First Bus has begun deploying electric buses converted from diesel for the first time. The four vehicles have been refurbished and repurposed for electric power, and will run on routes across Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport.

The electric conversions are undertaken by NewPower, a ‘repowering’ service from bus manufacturer Wrightbus. The week-long conversion process takes place at NewPower’s Bicester factory in Oxford and sees engineers remove the engine, gearbox, fuel tank, radiator, and other components from diesel buses before installing batteries and an electric drive system. Wrightbus claims that converting diesel buses not only costs half as much as buying a new electric bus, but also extends their lifespan by six to nine years.

First Bus initially provided two vehicles on a trial basis to the NewPower programme, and after successful conversion, ordered thirty additional vehicles for use at locations across the UK. The first four converted vehicles are those being deployed on routes in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas, including University routes. They join an additional 62 electric buses in the area, which were introduced following the electrification of First Bus’ Fareham depot last year.

Gary Weaver, First Bus South’s Engineering Director, said: “We are proud to introduce these four converted electric buses to Portsmouth, Fareham and Gosport. 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.”

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.”

First Bus plans to deploy ‘repowered’ buses at other locations besides Portsmouth; namely, Norwich, Leeds, Leicester, Aberdeen and elsewhere. The company says that converting vehicles is just part of its goal to achieve a fully electric bus fleet by 2035.

firstbus.co.uk