By Elishya Perera
Greenock, Scotland (CU)_The United Kingdom’s largest independent bus operator, McGill’s, has announced that it has made a new £15million investment in all-electric buses, ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).
Accordingly, 33 new buses will be delivered in the second half of this year, ahead of the conference in November.
This latest deal follows a £17.5million investment announced last month for 12 deck buses and 1 single deck from Alexander Dennis Limited (ADL), and 22 Yutong E12 vehicles from Pelican Yutong.
“We’re thrilled to be making this further investment which will bring our total fleet of all-electric vehicles in the west of Scotland and Dundee to 68,” James Easdale, co-owner and chairman of McGill’s Group, said.
“Notably, these will be delivered before COP26, significantly in advance of other operators who have placed orders. We have a strong record of investment in McGill’s and this will continue in years to come.”
Meanwhile, the Group’s Chief Executive, Ralph Roberts, noted that the introduction of these additional vehicles into their Glasgow and Renfrewshire networks will significantly reduce carbon emissions by about 2 billion grams every year. He added that the enhanced passenger features of these vehicles, such as air conditioning and USB charging, together with “a whisper quiet journey” will enhance the passenger experience.
According to Sandy Easdale, co-owner of McGill’s Group, the British bus operator is committed to playing its part in developing a clean and sustainable public transport system, which would encourage more people to opt for taking the bus over a personal vehicle.
“This can help reduce congestion and emissions whilst tackling climate change,” he noted. “We led the charge on introducing clean diesel Euro VI fleet and by the end of 2021, the McGill’s Group will operate more electric buses than any other operator in Scotland.”
