Wattsway to use First Charge network

Wattsway Travel has signed an agreement to access First Charge’s network of electrified bus depots, expanding the reach of its electric coach operations.

The London-based operator, which runs a growing fleet of 50, 57 and 72-seat electric coaches, said access to the First Charge sites will provide additional opportunities for charging en route.

First Charge has so far opened 14 electrified First Bus depots to third-party commercial vehicles.

Its network now includes sites in Aberdeen, Basildon, Bristol, Glasgow, Leicester, Leeds, Norwich, Portsmouth, Taunton, and York.

First Charge said the partnership reflects growing demand from commercial operators for shared charging infrastructure as the transition to zero-emission transport gathers pace.

Limited access to suitably located charging remains a hurdle for many coach businesses assessing electric vehicles, particularly those on longer-distance private hire, tourism and contract work.

Shared networks have therefore been suggested as key to overcoming one of the main barriers to coach fleet electrification.

Andy Gwilliam, Head of Product and Standards at First Charge said: “We’re seeing increasing interest from commercial vehicle operators looking for practical, reliable charging infrastructure to support electrification.

“Operators like Wattsway Travel are helping demonstrate what’s possible with electric coaches today, and shared charging infrastructure will play an important role in giving more operators the confidence to make the transition.”

Mark Watts, Director of Wattsway Travel said: “Access to reliable charging infrastructure is critical for giving operators the confidence to electrify, particularly on longer-distance journeys.

“Having access to the First Charge network will help us continue expanding what’s possible for electric coach travel across the UK.”