Northern Ireland unveils first electric double-deck bus
Northern Ireland infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon has unveiled the first of 80 Wrightbus Electroliner double-deck buses due to be in passenger service in spring 2022. The vehicles are part of a £74million investment for 100 zero emission buses, including 20 hydrogen buses and associated infrastructure.
Mallon says: “The time for talking is over, it is now time for climate action. Cleaner, greener, sustainable transport is key to protecting our environment and fighting the climate crisis. I have been clear since coming to office that we must act now to deliver the change that our communities and our citizens deserve.
“That is why I provided £74million of investment in zero/low emission buses and I am delighted to see this investment now translate into delivery on the ground with the arrival of the first electric double decker buses for public transport on the island of Ireland.
“When all the buses arrive and are in service Translink will have the fourth largest fleet across these islands of zero emission buses – demonstrating my commitment to ensuring Northern Ireland is building a cleaner, greener society.”
Chris Conway, group chief executive, Translink, adds: “This is another significant milestone in our journey to reduce our carbon emissions and attract more people to cleaner public transport choices for the benefit of everyone.
“These new zero emission buses will make up around one third of the Translink Metro fleet helping improve air quality in Belfast. They will also offer the latest standards in comfort, quality and accessibility with in-seat USB chargers, wi-fi and new accessibility features.”