Electric Metrodeckers grounded following fire

As a precautionary measure, Switch Mobility has requested its electric Metrodeckers are taken out of service while checks are made following the recent fire at Potters Bar Bus Garage.

The blaze at the Bus Garage on Sunday 22 May 2022 saw six buses burn, two of which were described as ‘hybrid buses’ by Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Services.

A spokesperson from Switch Mobility confirmed that two of its buses burnt in the Potters Bar fire. He told Bus and Coach Buyer that it has been proactive by issuing a message requesting all Metrodeckers be grounded while safety checks are made.

A TfL spokesperson said: “As a precaution, Switch Mobility has asked all operators that use its double-decker electric buses to temporarily withdraw them from service while it conducts an investigation and carries out safety checks. We have arrangements in place to minimise any disruption on the routes where these buses operate. We apologise to any customers who are experiencing disruption to their bus service.”

Bus operators are moving vehicles from other garages to serve the impacted routes. Around five routes are being disrupted due to the fire and buses being taken out of service. Around 90 buses have been taken out of service either due the fire or because they are manufactured by Switch Mobility.

No date has been confirmed for them to be put back in service, but Switch Mobility is currently reviewing the situation. The Switch Mobility spokesperson said the manufacturer is looking into how it can assist with the investigation into the fire.

Switch Mobility’s pro-activity in response to the Potters Bar event has included contacting other operators of the Metrodecker electric bus. A spokesperson for First in York confirmed that they had received a request from Switch Mobility to take the vehicles used on Park and Ride services in the city off the road as a precautionary measure and that the request was being complied with.