There are now more than 2,000 zero-emission buses on London’s streets.

This means two in every nine of London’s world-famous red buses have now gone green, which is more than 20% of the entire bus fleet, increasing from 30 in 2016.

TfL’s target is to make its entire bus fleet zero-emission by 2030.

TfL says its investment in zero-emission buses has helped to create around 3,000 jobs in green technology in locations like Ballymena, Falkirk and Scarborough. An example of the transport authority’s supply chain delivering for market growth is through the appointment of Wrightbus as Transport UK’s preferred supplier, which it says demonstrates a strong commitment to the UK zero-emission bus industry. As a start, Transport UK has placed an order of 75 zero-emission buses over 12 months, signalling confidence in the UK’s manufacturing industry allowing Wrightbus to ramp up production in Ballymena. On top of around 2,000 green jobs at its factory in Ulster, this will help Wrightbus support 7,200 supply chain jobs across 47 counties in the UK and Ireland to deliver British-sourced components for the manufacturing of zero-emission buses.

“Decarbonising the public transport network is essential to the Mayor’s mission for London to achieve net zero carbon by 2030” – Lorna Murphy, TfL’s Director of Buses

Lorna Murphy, TfL’s Director of Buses, said: “Not only do our iconic buses play a vital role in enabling Londoners to travel from A to B affordably and accessibly, but they also ensure each customer they carry is making their journey in the most sustainable and eco-friendly way possible. With more than 2,000 zero-emission buses on London’s roads and the addition of more fully electric routes like the 337, we are on a mission to transition to a fully zero-emission bus fleet, and continue to have the largest zero-emission bus fleet in Western Europe. Our investment in our operators and supply chain partners ensures continuous market growth and security, while supporting the national economy through the green and manufacturing jobs. Decarbonising the public transport network is essential to the Mayor’s mission for London to achieve net zero carbon by 2030.”

Transport UK latest to convert route

The route 337, which operates between Clapham Junction and Richmond, has become the capital’s newest fully electric bus route and is now operated by Transport UK, with 12 new Wrightbus Electroliners added to the service.

“Working with Transport for London and our supply chain, Transport UK are showcasing world-class public transport, in the process improving air quality and helping to secure UK-based employment” – David Cutts, Managing Director of Transport UK London Bus

David Cutts, Managing Director of Transport UK London Bus, said: “Having more than 2,000 zero-emission buses in London’s fleet is a momentous milestone and I am delighted that the Mayor commemorated it by visiting south-west London. Working with Transport for London and our supply chain, Transport UK are showcasing world-class public transport, in the process improving air quality and helping to secure UK-based employment. As a result of this partnership, all six of our garages run zero-emission services and with sustained investment over the next few years, we will collectively achieve decarbonisation of the entire red bus network.”

“This is a landmark moment for London and for Wrightbus and one we’re proud to be a part of” – Jean-Marc Gales, Wrightbus CEO

Jean-Marc Gales, Wrightbus CEO, said: “This is a landmark moment for London and for Wrightbus and one we’re proud to be a part of. Public transport is leading the way in the zero-emission transition, and we are delighted to support Mayor Sadiq Khan’s tireless efforts to improve air quality, reduce carbon and support UK manufacturing.

“We’re also pleased to announce our exclusive five-year partnership with Transport UK, which will see its fleet bolstered by 75 additional Wrightbus zero-emission vehicles in 2025 alone. Every Wrightbus in service on the streets of London thanks to this partnership helps to support good, green skilled jobs and the wider manufacturing sector across the UK.

“As the UK’s leading zero-emission bus manufacturer, Wrightbus vehicles are built with parts from suppliers across the UK manufacturing sector, so our success is its success.”