Repowered Wrightbus to be trialled on Bee Network
Go North West is to trial a repowered Wrightbus in service on the Bee Network. The Go-Ahead-owned already operates 69 electric buses from its Bolton depot.
This is the first bus on the Bee Network to be converted from diesel to electric. It is currently being trialled to evaluate energy efficiency, range, operational costs and real-world performance to determine whether repowering can offer a scalable solution for fleet electrification.
The Bee Network aims to be provided by a fully electric fleet by 2030.
“Converting an existing vehicle extends its life and provides a lower-cost way to cut emissions quickly” – Nigel Featham, Managing Director of Go North West
Nigel Featham, Managing Director of Go North West, added: “This trial is about exploring how the Bee Network might accelerate moves towards an all-electric fleet. Converting an existing vehicle extends its life and provides a lower-cost way to cut emissions quickly. If successful, this could become a vital tool in delivering Greater Manchester’s zero-emission ambitions.”
The conversion process takes three weeks and is carried out by Wrightbus’ New Power operation in Bicester.
“Repowering technology has the potential to be a game-changer in the transition to zero-emission transport” – Kirk Trewin, UK Bus Sales Director at Wrightbus
Kirk Trewin, UK Bus Sales Director at Wrightbus, said: “Repowering technology has the potential to be a game-changer in the transition to zero-emission transport. We’re excited to work with Go North West and TfGM to bring this innovation to life, which could unlock cost-effective solutions for the industry.”
“As we look to grow our fleet of electric buses, this repowering trial is an exciting opportunity to explore whether bus electrification can happen faster” – TfGM Director of Bus, Stephen Rhodes
TfGM Director of Bus, Stephen Rhodes, said: “Greater Manchester is determined to lead the way on transport innovation. As we look to grow our fleet of electric buses, this repowering trial is an exciting opportunity to explore whether bus electrification can happen faster and more cost-effectively. If successful, it could provide invaluable in helping us deliver a fully electric fleet by 2030 and provide a blueprint for the wider industry.”