Local Bus Depot in York Helps Decrease Area's Nitrogen Dioxide Levels

First Bus, a part of the First Group, has officially launched First Charge, a shared-charging initiative for businesses, fleet operators, and the wider public in Glasgow, and for businesses and fleet operators across the United Kingdom.

This initiative is set to contribute significantly to the promotion of electric vehicle (EV) usage in the UK, as the company aims to offer up its EV charging infrastructure to help combat climate change and improve air quality.

In collaboration with the City of York Council, First Bus has made substantial investments to transform its James Street depot, with millions of pounds spent on the project. The transformed depot, now operating as a net-zero carbon dioxide emissions facility, houses a fleet of 86 all-electric buses, a number that grew last year.

The results from this electric bus fleet have shown positive environmental benefits in York. The City Council has reported a 27% reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels around Gillygate and Bootham in 2024, attributing this improvement to First Bus' local electric fleet. This reduction in emissions is a testament to the environmental benefits of electric buses and First Bus' commitment to zero emissions.

The City of York Council has also recognized these environmental benefits in their air quality assessment.

First Charge is not just a new branding for First Bus' shared-charging initiative; it is also a component of the company's operations in the United Kingdom. The initiative allows businesses, fleet operators, and the public in Glasgow to access the operator's EV charging infrastructure, while it is available to businesses and fleet operators nationwide.

Transdev, the company that transitioned to a net-zero carbon dioxide emissions depot for operating its electric buses in York in 2023, is one example of a business that can benefit from First Charge. The transformed James Street depot is expected to save approximately 5,000 tonnes of CO2e each year, a significant contribution to the fight against climate change.

The shared-charging initiative, First Charge, is expected to play a crucial role in the promotion of EV usage in the United Kingdom, contributing to a cleaner and greener future for all.