Hull Council Drives Forward Electric Bus Travel Plan

Hull City Council's Cabinet has approved a groundbreaking plan to introduce 40 electric buses, enhancing the city’s travel infrastructure. This initiative follows a successful bid for government funding and will see approximately £2 million allocated for charging infrastructure, supporting both local bus operators and the council’s fleet.

In December 2023, Hull City Council, in partnership with Stagecoach, East Yorkshire Buses, and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, submitted a joint bid to the Government’s ZEBRA2 scheme. This bid secured nearly £6 million in March to support the purchase and deployment of electric buses, revolutionizing public travel in the region.

While buses contribute a minor part to overall emissions, transport remains the UK’s largest source of carbon emissions. Hull’s electric bus initiative aims to address this by replacing part of the city’s diesel bus fleet with eco-friendly electric buses. These buses will produce no carbon emissions or nitrogen oxides, significantly improving air quality and supporting climate change efforts.

This plan marks a pivotal step in transforming Hull's public transport system. The new electric buses, operating on rechargeable batteries, offer a range of several hundred miles and will be charged externally at depots. In addition to being environmentally friendly, these buses are quieter, provide a smoother ride, and are easier to maintain, enhancing the travel experience for passengers.

For travelers, the benefits are substantial. Electric buses provide a more comfortable journey with less noise and smoother acceleration, making daily commutes and longer trips more pleasant. The improved air quality and quieter operation also contribute to a more enjoyable urban environment, making Hull a more attractive destination for tourists and business travelers alike. Additionally, the reliability and frequency of the new buses will likely improve, offering more efficient and timely public transport options for all travelers.

Councillor Mark Ieronimo, responsible for transportation, roads, and highways, highlighted the council’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2045. He emphasized that the new electric buses would play a crucial role in reducing emissions and improving public travel in Hull.

Ben Gilligan, Managing Director of East Yorkshire Buses, noted the positive impact on the local environment due to reduced emissions and noise. Matt Cranwell, Managing Director at Stagecoach East Midlands, pointed out that this investment in sustainable transport would support Hull’s economic and environmental goals.