Lothian Buses has confirmed that it will shortly be placing an order for Volvo’s new electric-hybrid buses, to be used in Edinburgh from 2017.
The £12m order will see the council-owned firm provide the first fully-commercial service with 25 new hybrid-electric vehicles, the first of which entered service in Gothenburg two months ago.
It is expected that the buses will reduce carbon emissions by up to 75% and diesel consumption by 40% compared with the current fleet.
The announcement came as Volvo begins a UK tour with its concept vehicle, which was on public show at Lothian Buses’ Doors Open Day last weekend.
The confirmation of an order is the latest step in the process that has been delayed by internal management difficulties at the municipal. Lothian Buses announced its intention to place an order for the buses nearly a year ago to work on route 30 (Clovenstone-city centre-Musselburgh), replacing Euro 5 Volvo 7900 hybrids.
Lothian Buses Engineering Director Bill Devlin says: “This really is the next logical step in creating more environmentally-friendly travel options for our passengers.
“We’re at an advanced stage in our discussions with Volvo and are very excited about the prospect of bringing this technology to Edinburgh.”
Derek McKay MP, Minister for Transport and the Islands, says: “Lothian Buses has shown consistent commitment to improving the environment performance of its fleet. I’m pleased we are able to support it through our Scottish Green Bus Fund.”