UK-based Wrightbus has unveiled a £25 million research and development investment to propel the evolution of zero-emission public transport. The focus lies on advancing both battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. A significant portion of this funding, £10 million, is dedicated to the ongoing enhancement of the Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner, a battery-electric bus available in single and double-decker configurations. However, the standout feature of this investment is the allocation of £5 million towards the development of a hydrogen-powered coach, set to be launched within 18 months. With an impressive range of 1,000km per refuel, the hydrogen coach is designed to compete with diesel counterparts in terms of range and efficiency while offering a greener long-distance travel option without compromising on performance or convenience. Moreover, Wrightbus is also investing in product validation, advanced vehicle testing, and the creation of a real-time telematics system using an additional £10 million. This system, powered by AI-based data analytics, aims to facilitate predictive maintenance, optimize fleet operations, and extend the longevity of vehicles. The Science Secretary, Peter Kyle, commended the investment during a visit to Wrightbus' headquarters in Ballymena. Wrightbus, with its fleet of over 1,800 zero-emission vehicles, has already covered more than 50 million miles, preventing approximately 85,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions compared to diesel alternatives. Looking ahead, the company plans to manufacture 1,200 buses by 2025, with a significant majority being battery electric vehicles. This strategic move aligns with the company's commitment to sustainability and its proactive stance in transitioning from diesel to cleaner propulsion technologies. CEO Jean-Marc Gales highlighted the investment as the largest R&D commitment in Wrightbus' history, marking a crucial milestone in responding to the increasing demand for zero-emission vehicles and establishing the company as a leader in the UK's eco-friendly manufacturing sector.