Surrey Invests in 34 Zero-Emission Hydrogen Buses for Local Communities
Key Ideas
- Surrey County Council invests £16m in 34 hydrogen buses, contributing to zero emissions and sustainable transport solutions.
- The buses, operated by Metrobus and UK-built, have a range of 600 miles and will serve various routes across Surrey.
- Additional investments by SCC include £6.3m in ultra-low emission minibuses, £9m in bus priority measures, and £1.4m in passenger information improvements.
- Partnership between SCC, Metrobus, and local authorities aims to provide efficient and environmentally friendly public transport options for the region.
Surrey County Council has announced the introduction of 34 new hydrogen-powered buses to its public transportation fleet, furthering the council's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly initiatives. The fleet consists of 23 single-decker and 11 double-decker buses, boasting a remarkable 600-mile range while producing zero emissions. These buses are set to operate on various routes covering key areas such as Salfords, Horley, Gatwick Airport, Crawley, Merstham, Redhill, Reigate, Woodhatch, and East Surrey Hospital. The £16 million investment from SCC underscores their dedication to promoting clean transportation solutions.
Managed by Metrobus, these hydrogen buses signify a significant step towards achieving zero-emission public transport in Surrey. Ed Wills, the managing director at Metrobus, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in realizing sustainable practices, making zero emissions a tangible reality for local communities. Matt Furniss, SCC's cabinet member for highways, transport, and economic growth, highlighted the council's broader investments in enhancing public transport services, including £6.3 million for ultra-low emission minibuses, £9 million for bus priority measures to improve punctuality, and £1.4 million for better passenger information at bus stops.
The partnership between SCC, Metrobus, and other stakeholders reflects a collective dedication to advancing eco-friendly transportation options and ensuring the efficient movement of passengers within Surrey. With the addition of these hydrogen buses, the region is poised to benefit from cleaner air quality and reduced carbon footprint, setting a positive example for sustainable transport solutions.