Plymouth to welcome 50 zero-emission electric buses

Plymouth’s public transport system is set for a green revolution as 50 zero-emission electric double-decker buses are introduced this year, part of a transformative £31.87 million joint investment. The initiative is a collaboration between Plymouth Citybus, the Go-Ahead Group, Plymouth City Council, Cornwall Council, and the Department for Transport under the Government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) 2 Fund.

The project aims to modernise nearly half of Plymouth Citybus’s fleet, replacing older diesel vehicles with cutting-edge electric buses. The new fleet will enhance passenger experience, reduce emissions, and improve air quality across the region. The buses will serve routes 21/A, 42, and 50/51 in Plymouth, as well as Cornwall’s Rame Peninsula on route 70.

Funding includes £19.6 million from Plymouth Citybus, a £10.34 million ZEBRA grant, and £1.94 million from Plymouth and Cornwall councils combined.

The new buses will begin arriving in late spring, with the first 25 vehicles entering service by summer and the full fleet operational by year’s end.

To support the fleet, Plymouth Citybus is upgrading its Milehouse depot into a state-of-the-art charging and maintenance hub designed for zero-emission vehicles.

Richard Stevens, Managing Director of Plymouth Citybus, spoke of the significance of this investment: "This is a huge step forward in our commitment to reducing emissions, improving air quality, and providing a modern, reliable service for passengers. It reflects our dedication to the community and a sustainable future for Plymouth."

The initiative aligns with Plymouth’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and net-zero ambitions for 2030.
Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport at Plymouth City Council, commented: "This project embodies our vision of a thriving, clean, and connected bus network. It’s a vital step in making Plymouth a greener city while ensuring frequent, reliable, and accessible public transport for everyone."

Cornwall Council’s involvement includes introducing six electric buses to the Rame Peninsula and creating the necessary infrastructure to support their operations. Additional ZEBRA funding secured by Cornwall Council will also benefit the Falmouth town service and Truro Park and Ride.

Connor Donnithorne, Cornwall Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport, noted the impact on the region: "Route 70 is crucial for connecting south-east Cornwall communities to Plymouth. This funding ensures zero-emission buses can run now and well into the future, reflecting our commitment to reducing carbon emissions."

The new buses are expected to significantly reduce emissions over their lifetime, including:

• 79,914 tonnes of carbon emissions

• 28 tonnes of NOx (nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide)

• 1 tonne of particulate matter (PM2.5)

Each bus will also feature enhanced accessibility, with space for two wheelchairs or multiple prams, as well as audio-visual route and stop information to improve passenger convenience.

Wrightbus, the bus manufacturer, has pledged to plant 10 trees for every vehicle produced, contributing to reforestation efforts in the communities where the buses will operate.

This ambitious project positions Plymouth as a leader in sustainable public transport while addressing climate change and enhancing local air quality. By the end of the year, these new electric buses will represent a tangible step toward a greener future for the city and surrounding areas.