Blue Bus in UK CNG minibus first

Blue Bus Innovations has become what is thought to be the first company in the UK to operate compressed natural gas-powered (CNG) minibuses.

The Luton-based start-up has ordered three IVECO Daily Line Hi-Matic vehicles powered by CNG. The trio of 16-seater alternative-fuel vehicles is in addition to three 19-seater Daily Tourys minibuses. The CNG vehicles (Daily 50C14GA8s) are built on a 4,100mm wheelbase and are powered by IVECO’s 3litre, 140hp engine. According to the manufacturer, they produce 12% fewer NOx emissions, 76% less particulate matter and up to 95% less CO2 emissions when fuelled using bio-methane.

The diesel-powered Tourys models (Daily 65C18HA8’s) are powered by a 3.0-litre, 180hp engine. Also built on a 4,100mm wheelbase, they offer easy-to-reach, lowered luggage compartments.

Both models have been equipped with the eight-speed Hi-Matic automatic transmission.

Blue Bus Innovations business model provides seats on its shuttle buses from strategic pick-up and drop-off points in central London, to-and-from Luton Airport between 7am and 11pm daily. Passengers travelling to the airport can pre-book their seats or reserve a space on-demand via the bluebus.app.