Harrogate's New £21 Million Electric Bus Fleet Set to Launch in July

Harrogate Bus Company, a division of Transdev, is gearing up to launch its new electric bus fleet this July. This initiative involves a significant investment of £21 million for 39 new electric buses and the refurbishment of its Starbeck depot, aiming to fully transition Harrogate's bus service to electric power.

The eagerly awaited fleet includes 20 new Mercedes-Benz E-Citaro all-electric single-deck buses. These will serve Harrogate's busy urban route 1 between Harrogate and Knaresborough, route 7 linking Harrogate, Wetherby, and Leeds, and rural route 24 between Harrogate and Pateley Bridge. This expansion promises to enhance the travel experience for both locals and tourists, offering a smoother, quieter, and more environmentally friendly journey through some of North Yorkshire’s most picturesque landscapes.

To mark the occasion, Harrogate Bus Company is hosting a special event on Tuesday, June 18. This event, starting at 3.30pm, will offer the public a first look at the town’s new electric buses. Visitors can expect an engaging afternoon filled with travel-themed activities.

Kel Pizzuti, General Manager of the award-winning bus operator, expressed excitement about the upcoming event. He emphasized that it would be a family-friendly occasion with music, live dance performances from local schools, face painting, balloon modeling, and a magician to entertain attendees. Additionally, the event will highlight local travel opportunities, with information and incentives for exploring Harrogate and its surrounding areas by bus.

Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy refreshments and participate in prize giveaways, including the chance to win free bus trips. This event invites all, including families, local schools, and nursery groups, to celebrate the future of sustainable travel in Harrogate.

These new buses will join the company’s existing eight Harrogate Electrics-branded Volvo 7900E electric vehicles, which were the first of their kind in Britain when launched in 2018. The current fleet serves routes 2, 3, and 6, covering areas such as Bilton, Jennyfield, Pannal Ash, and Beckwith Knowle. These routes connect travelers to various attractions and scenic spots, making it easier to explore the beauty of the region.

The new buses are part of an initiative supported by £7.8 million in funding from the Government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme, following a successful bid by Transdev’s partner, North Yorkshire Council. More details about the event and family attractions will be released closer to the date.

This launch marks a significant milestone in Harrogate's journey towards sustainable public transportation, promising a greener future for the town and enhancing the travel experience for all who visit.