This new committed investment will see First Glasgow adding 50 electric buses to the 126 electric buses that are currently being delivered to its Caledonia depot, taking the total number of First Bus electric vehicles operating in Glasgow city to 200, accounting for over 40% of the total buses operating out of the two First Glasgow city depots.
First Aberdeen, meanwhile, will welcome 24 brand new electric vehicles, meaning its fleet is now made up of 30% zero emission vehicles.
The approval of ScotZEB funding will also see major infrastructure developments across First Bus’ Scotstoun and Aberdeen depots, with both set to receive significant investment in accelerating their electrification, helping to future-proof both depots as First Bus continues towards its commitment to operating a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
In 2020, First Bus also pledged not to purchase any new diesel buses after December 2022. This commitment goes above and beyond current regulations, solidifying First Bus’s position as a leader in the transition to a low-carbon future.
Duncan Cameron, managing director for First Bus Scotland, said: “Today marks another major milestone in our sustainable travel roadmap, with the approval of funding from the Scottish Government allowing us to expand our electric bus infrastructure across the country.
“We are delighted to have been awarded this funding and we are proud to be continuing our journey towards achieving a 100% zero emission fleet by 2035. Scotstoun will become the second of our depots in Glasgow to start its journey towards a zero-emission fleet, while Aberdeen will further enhance its growing number of zero-emission buses. Both depots will be future-proofed for further investment in zero-emissions vehicles as a result of the infrastructure work undertaken.