Big Bus Tours Expands Electric Fleet for Summer 2024
Big Bus Tours has announced plans to introduce 40 additional electric buses to its fleet by Summer 2024. The move will see 20 new Ankai electric buses deployed in Paris and Vienna, and 20 retrofitted electric buses operating in London.
This significant update will bring the total number of electric buses in the company's fleet to 51, which represents just over 10% of their global operations. The new electric buses will begin service this summer, featuring a refreshed design that underscores Big Bus Tours' commitment to sustainability.
Pat Waterman, Executive Chairman of Big Bus Tours, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, noting, "This EV expansion is a major step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the tour experience for our customers."
The Sustainability Team at Big Bus Tours has been active in implementing several eco-friendly initiatives across the company. In addition to the electric bus expansion, the company plans to introduce an Electric Duck vehicle in Singapore later this year. Efforts are also underway to collaborate with suppliers on reducing the carbon footprint of operations, including the use of new headphones that reduce carbon emissions by 35% and are packaged in biodegradable materials.
Technological advancements have played a crucial role in these efforts. The company has reconfigured tour routes to enhance customer experience while cutting down on carbon emissions. Since 2019, these changes have led to significant reductions in the company's environmental impact. Additionally, new technologies such as battery optimization, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials are being employed to further reduce emissions.
Herman Wa, group sustainability manager of Big Bus Tours, emphasized the long-term vision of their sustainability efforts, stating, "Our sustainability journey is not just about reducing our environmental impact today, it's about shaping a better future for generations to come."
