ReGlasgow

SEVENTY-Five More New Buses Announced By First Glasgow

30 November, 2018 | News, Public Transport

FIRST Glasgow is to invest millions in more ultra-low emission vehicles, with additional funding being granted from the Scottish Green Bus Fund.

Another 75 new bus are being bought for Glasgow in 2019, through £16.35million investment from First Bus and £400,000 from the Green Bus Fund.

This follows more than £14million of investment in 2018 as the city’s largest bus operator commits to improving the quality of offering to customers while playing its role in improving air quality in Glasgow.

The launch of this year’s batch of 75 new buses took place in George Square last month.

Andrew Jarvis, managing director for First Scotland with cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson MSP at Alexander Dennis Ltd’s bus factory in Falkirk  to see the new buses on the production line.

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson said: “It is good news that First Bus continue to invest in a modern fleet, manufactured here in Scotland, in partnership with Alexander Dennis. It is encouraging that First Bus have been able to take advantage of funds provided through the Scottish Government Green Bus Fund and move to new buses which offer significant carbon savings over the existing fleet.

“These new vehicles will help improve air quality and support the low emission zone which will shortly commence in Glasgow. The buses offer significant improvements in amenities and facilities, which I’m confident will help attract new customers, as well as being enjoyed by regular passengers. This is a positive step in our ambition to develop a low carbon economy.

“Buses have an important role in being part of the solution to improving air quality in our towns and cities. I welcome this investment by First Bus, which supports this government’s sustainable transport ambitions, as well as being great news for the people of Glasgow and beyond.”

Andrew Jarvis, Managing Director for First Glasgow, adds: “We are committed to working with Glasgow City Council, Transport Scotland and the Cabinet Minister to improve the city’s bus services. The bus is very much part of the solution when it comes to reducing emissions on our already congested roads — one full, low emission bus can take up to 75 cars off the road.

“By deploying our new Euro 6 technology vehicles that offer more comfort and are eco-friendlier, we are headed in the right direction, but I know that a lot more can be achieved with strong working partnerships as we look to make public transport a more attractive alternative to the car for more people.

“In addition to the 75 Glasgow vehicles, First Bus in Scotland will also be working with Scottish Power Energy Networks to introduce two electric vehicles to the city of Glasgow, as well as continuing to work with Aberdeen City Council on the next phase of hydrogen bus deployment in Aberdeen.”

Keith Watson, customer development director at ADL, stated: “We’re delighted to be partnering with First Glasgow to bring ultra-low emission Euro 6 and electric vehicles to the streets of Scotland’s biggest city. These Enviro double and single deck vehicles not only respond to stringent environmental demands but also to passengers’ increasing expectations thanks to premium onboard specifications and features. We look forward to continuing to work with First Glasgow on their journey to improve air quality in and around the city.”

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