The Go-Ahead Group is introducing a new generation of electric buses to Brighton and Hove, utilising geo-fencing technology enabling buses to switch into zero-emissions mode in the area’s Ultra-Low Emissions Zone.
The company will introduce 30 of the new buses to its fleet in the area as part of a £10 million investment in greener transport.
The buses are fully electric, driven by an electric motor at all times, but feature a small built-in Euro 6 diesel generator which can be used to recharge the battery.
The ability to use a generator outside of the ULEZ area means the buses can cover longer distances and manage steeper gradients than a traditional electric bus. It also eliminates the city’s need to invest in expensive charging infrastructure.
The unique geo-fencing system will automatically deactivate the generator and ensure the bus switches to zero emissions mode when entering the Ultra-Low Emission Zone.
Almost 98% of bus movements in Brighton pass through the zone.
