Electric BYDs join Uno
First examples of BYD’s B12 single-decker join Hertfordshire-based fleet
University of Hertfordshire-owned operator, Uno, has launched the first five of its zero-emission electric buses on its newly branded Electric Shuttle. The five buses, which will run on the route between campuses at the University of Hertfordshire and the site’s park and ride, are the first of 27 being delivered over the next 12 months.
These first five buses are BYD B12 single-deckers, the first examples of the model delivered in the UK. However, no announcement of who is manufacturing the remaining 22 of the 27 has been made yet.
The new BYDs can accommodate 93 passengers and have a charge range of just over 300 miles.
The second batch of buses are due to arrive in September of this year, with the final delivery being made in April 2026.
“This is a significant milestone for all of us” – Jim Thorpe, managing director for Uno
Jim Thorpe, managing director for Uno, said: “It’s great to come together today to celebrate the beginning of a greener, cleaner future for Hertfordshire’s buses. This is a significant milestone for all of us and highlights Uno’s commitment, as well as that of our key partners at Hertfordshire County Council and the DfT, to deliver sustainable, reliable transport for our local communities. Everyone at Uno, along with our parent company the University of Hertfordshire, is delighted to be part of this journey as we look ahead and continue ‘powering up to get down to zero!’”
“I’m proud of our partnership with Uno and the DfT, and I can’t wait to see the positive changes this brings to our communities” – Phil Bibby, Executive Members for Highways at Hertfordshire County Council
Phil Bibby, Executive Members for Highways at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “It’s inspiring to see the future of transport arriving in Hertfordshire. These new electric buses are more than just vehicles, they represent cleaner air, lower emissions, and a better travel experience for university students initially, but all Hertfordshire residents eventually. I’m proud of our partnership with Uno and the DfT, and I can’t wait to see the positive changes this brings to our communities. This is just one of many initiatives we’re supporting to encourage residents to opt for more sustainable methods of transport than the car.”