Dundee welcomed its first fleet of hit-tech electric buses in a spectacular launch event last night.
Xplore Dundee unveiled 12 double-decker ‘Electric Emerald’ vehicles that will operate on the city centre’s first zero emission bus route.
The £7million investment will transform service 28, that runs through the heart of the city.
The state-of-the-art double deckers will be on the city’s streets early in January 2022 once driver training is complete.
Managing Director of Xplore Dundee, Christine McGlasson was joined by Minister of Transport, Graeme Dey, at last night’s ceremony on the Waterfront.
She said: “This is a milestone moment for us at Xplore Dundee – we are so proud to bring these electric double deckers to Dundee, the first of their kind for the city.
“Our fleet is now three-quarters low or zero emission. We believe that buses are the solution to pollution and as part of the McGill’s Group, we intend to continue investing in our fleet to provide a cleaner, greener public transport offering to the people of Dundee.”
The unveiling of the new fleet comes one year on from Xplore Dundee’s acquisition by Sandy and James Easdale from its previous owners, National Express.
During that period, McGill’s has invested a total of £32.5million, assisted by some grant funding from the Scottish Government, in 68 all-electric buses for its operations across Scotland.
James Easdale said: “We firmly believe the new electric fleet will entice more people to leave their car keys at home and switch to the bus. Electric buses bring a new level of passenger experience, including air conditioning and USB charging, coupled with a whisper quiet journey.”
Mark Flynn convener of Dundee City Council’s city development committee said: “As a city we have been at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution and are gaining recognition for our ambition and vision worldwide.
“The council itself has a fleet of more than 150 EVs, the most of any UK local authority, but to improve air quality and with it the health outcomes for our communities we must all act together.”
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