Electric buses launched in Guildford

A fleet of zero emission buses has been launched in Guildford in what is believed to be the first all electric park and ride service in the UK.

Working with Stagecoach, Surrey County Council introduced plans to start using nine new fully electric, zero emission buses on the Guildford park and ride service last month, with the single decker vehicles entering the network on 7 January.

Nearly one million passenger journeys are made on Guildford's Park & Ride service every year. As well as reducing congestion on Guildford's main roads in and out of the town, the new fully-electric buses will replace existing diesel buses further improving air quality in Guildford.

Speaking last month, Mike Goodman, cabinet member for Environment, said: “This is fantastic news for Guildford. Not only will the new park and ride fleet of buses be smoother and quieter, they will be much better for the environment while also bringing an economic boost to the county because local company Alexander Dennis is building them and using them will help to reduce congestion.

“Improving air quality by reducing vehicle emissions is a key priority for us and introducing Surrey’s first electric buses through securing £1.5 million in funding and Stagecoach’s generous contribution is just one piece of the jigsaw – we’ve also just outlined plans to help establish a comprehensive network of electric charging points and launched a drive to reduce pollution around schools.”

Edward Hodgson, managing director for Stagecoach South, added: “This is such an exciting moment for us as we introduce the first fleet of fully electric buses for the south of England and this marks a huge step forward for greener travel in the Guildford area. Stagecoach is committed to improving air quality across the country and making bus travel the safest and cleanest travel option.”