Liverpool boosts fleet with 50 new electric buses

The Liverpool City Region is set to witness a significant transformation in its public transport system, as the region's Combined Authority has announced a major expansion of its electric bus fleet. This development, hailed as a landmark moment, is part of the city region's commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2035.

Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotheram, expressed his excitement about the announcement, stating that the new bus network prioritises passengers, making travel cheaper, greener, and more reliable. He also emphasised that decisions regarding the buses would be made locally, with the aim of bringing buses under public control.

In the past few months, an additional 100 fully electric buses have been ordered, adding to the 58 electric buses announced in March. This brings the total number of electric buses in the city region's publicly owned fleet to over 100. Funding for these new electric vehicles will be drawn from a £710 million pot called the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.

The new buses will be adorned with a new livery and Metro branding, mirroring the city region's new £500 million fleet of trains. The new design and colour scheme are intended to create a consistent, iconic image for the region's public transport.

Louise Haigh, Secretary of State for Transport, commended the Liverpool City Region for delivering a reliable, iconic, and green bus network. She was present at the announcement and indicated that the Government is committed to supporting local leaders in delivering on their transport priorities.

The franchising of bus services in the Liverpool City Region began in 2021, and bus services in St Helens are set to start in 2026. By the end of 2027, franchised bus services will be introduced across the region. The new bus network will allow greater local control of fares, timetables, and routes.

Mayor Rotheram stated that the new bus network is not just about reducing carbon emissions, but also about improving the quality of life for residents. He added that the expansion of the electric bus fleet is a significant step towards achieving the city region's ambitious goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2035.

A total of £26 million has been committed towards purchasing 50 brand new electric double-deckers, further solidifying the Liverpool City Region's commitment to a greener, more sustainable public transport system. This expansion is seen as a landmark moment in building a green transport system for the region.