UK bus operator, Go-Ahead, is investing 500 million GBP in the production of 1,200 zero-emission electric buses through a partnership with Wrightbus.
The funds will be invested over the next three years with the aim of unlocking greener journeys for passengers, supporting hundreds of UK jobs and boosting economic growth.
The initiative includes a partnership between Go-Ahead and Northern Ireland-based manufacturer Wrightbus with plans to establish a dedicated production line to deliver the buses across the country. Go-Ahead will ulitmetly operate the buses in locations such as Plymouth, Gloucestershire, East Yorkshire, London, and the Isle of Wight.
It is expected that up to 500 UK-based manufacturing jobs will be created or supported as part of this investment.
Go-Ahead Bus CEO, Matt Carney said:This multi-million pound investment and partnership with WrightBus will accelerate the transition to zero-emission fleet across the UK.
We are proud to be working in partnership with the UK Government and local authorities to deliver transformational environmental change for communities, while supporting UK jobs and the growth of the country's supply chain.
This investment aligns with the UK government’s broader transport decarbonisation strategy, aiming to reduce the UK’s carbon footprint and promote sustainable growth.
Meanwhile, the government has also announced plans to create a UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel. This panel will bring together industry experts, local leaders, and stakeholders to ensure that the UK remains a leader in bus manufacturing. It will also help local authorities in delivering their own transport ambitions.
Further supporting these developments, the Transport Secretary is set to introduce a new Buses Bill by the end of the year. The bill will empower local leaders to take greater control of their bus services, ensuring consistency and reliability for passengers across the country.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said:The number one mission of this Government is growing the economy. The half a billion pounds Go-Ahead is announcing today shows the confidence industry has in investing in the UK.
This announcement will see communities across the country benefit from brand new, state of the art green buses - which will deliver cleaner air and better journeys.
We’re creating the right conditions for businesses to flourish, so we can support jobs and accelerate towards decarbonising the transport sector. Under this Government, Britain is open for business.
