First electric coach service to be trialled between England and Wales
Starting from June 2024, travellers will have the opportunity to experience the first electric coach service between London, Bristol, and Newport in South Wales.
Ticket prices will begin at just £2.99. The 46-seat coach will offer modern amenities such as USB charging points, free wifi, and a toilet onboard.
This zero-emission vehicle is a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions, saving approximately 352kg of CO2 per day compared to diesel-fueled counterparts. Over the course of a year, the pilot program could potentially eliminate up to 17,950 car journeys from roads in England and Wales.
The trial will be conducted by FlixBus, a Munich-based company known for its long-distance coach network, in partnership with Newport Transport. Andreas Schorling, Managing Director of FlixBus UK, emphasized the commitment to sustainability and driving forward the necessary changes to combat climate change.
David Jenkins, Interim Managing Director of Newport Transport, highlighted their role in introducing electric vehicles to local bus services and extending this initiative to the intercity coach market.
The electric coach, equipped with a 282kWh battery rating, will be charged at Transport UK’s (formerly Abellio) bus depot in Battersea, London, and Newport Transport’s headquarters in South Wales.
FlixBus, with operations in 43 countries across four continents, has previously piloted electric vehicles in various markets worldwide, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable transportation solutions.
