Bus operator Go-Ahead has announced a substantial £500m investment to decarbonise its fleet by rolling out up to 1,200 new zero-emission buses over the next three years.
This ambitious electric bus plan, which was made possible through a partnership with Northern Ireland-based manufacturer Wrightbus, aims to support up to 500 UK manufacturing jobs while creating an additional 2,000 jobs across the wider UK supply chain by 2026.
Commenting on the major funding, UK Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: “The number one mission of this government is growing the economy. The £500m Go-Ahead is announcing today shows the confidence the industry has in investing in the UK.
“This announcement will see communities across the country benefit from brand new, state-of-the-art green buses – which will deliver cleaner air and better journeys.
“We’re creating the right conditions for businesses to flourish so we can support jobs and accelerate towards decarbonising the transport sector. Under this government, Britain is open for business.”
A nationwide transition to green transport
The deployment of these zero-emission buses will directly benefit communities across the UK, with new buses scheduled to operate in regions such as Plymouth, Gloucestershire, East Yorkshire, London, and the Isle of Wight.
As part of the initiative, for every new vehicle produced, Go-Ahead and Wrightbus will plant ten trees in the towns and cities where the buses will be deployed, further reinforcing the environmental benefits.
Strengthening UK electric bus manufacturing
The investment is also part of a broader government strategy to cement the UK’s leadership in zero-emission bus manufacturing.
The Transport Secretary is set to unveil a new UK Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel, which will bring together industry leaders and local authorities to ensure the UK remains a pioneer in green transport.
This move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to attract investment, including upcoming meetings with international business leaders at the International Investment Summit.
Go-Ahead Bus CEO Matt Carney added: “This multi-million-pound investment and partnership with Wrightbus will accelerate the transition to a zero-emission fleet across the UK.
“We are proud to be working in partnership with the UK government and local authorities to deliver transformational environmental change for communities while supporting UK jobs and the growth of the country’s supply chain.”
Zero-emission buses: Key to decarbonising UK transport
Electric buses are playing a pivotal role in the UK’s push to decarbonise its transport sector. As buses are one of the most widely used forms of public transport, shifting to zero-emission models can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in urban areas.
Unlike traditional diesel buses, electric buses produce no exhaust emissions, which contributes to lower carbon footprints and healthier urban environments.
Moreover, electric buses offer long-term financial benefits through lower maintenance and fuel costs. By investing in this technology, the UK is not only cutting carbon emissions but also supporting local economies, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and advancing towards its climate goals.
Supporting jobs and economic growth
Beyond its environmental impact, the investment is a major boost to the UK manufacturing industry. With 500 jobs secured at Wrightbus and 2,000 more across the supply chain, this initiative supports the UK’s industrial sector and fosters sustained economic growth.
As the UK Government continues to prioritise green transport, these new zero-emission buses signal a promising step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for public transportation across the UK.
