Wrightbus upgrading Aberdeen hydrogen fleet

Issue with mounting bracket leads to fleet taken out of service for upgrades

Technical issues with Wrightbus hydrogen buses in First Bus’s Aberdeen fleet have been identified and the manufacturer is already rectifying them.

During routine checks last week, a Parts and Service Engineer from Wrightbus discovered an issue with a mounting bracket at the rear of one of First’s Hydroliners. After a maintenance check, Wrightbus took the decision to upgrade and replace the part on the entire Hydroliner fleet to ensure a repeat of the issue does not occur.

The hydrogen vehicles are currently out of service while the issues are resolved.

“This is a mechanical problem and not a hydrogen fuel-related issue” – Ian Gillott, Wrightbus parts and service director

Ian Gillott, Wrightbus parts and service director, said: “The fleet has temporarily been removed from service as a precautionary measure in the short term until the upgrade is complete.

“This issue has only affected our Hydroliner double decker buses – all our other models remain in service. This is a mechanical problem and not a hydrogen fuel-related issue.

“Our incredibly skilled workforce in Ballymena is already working to rectify the problem swiftly, showing the value of having a homegrown workforce and a factory which works closely with operators.

“Our buses have an enviable safety record; our Hydroliners were the first of their kind in the world and have saved more than 1,500 tonnes of CO2 in comparison to their diesel counterparts. While we don’t currently have a firm date for the work to be completed, we’re looking forward to getting them back on the road as soon as possible.”

Image captured by David Cole

A spokesperson from First Bus said: “We are waiting on further instruction from Wrightbus who are currently carrying out repairs.

“We will continue to reallocate low emission Euro VI buses from our Glasgow fleet to minimise the impact of this temporary vehicle withdrawal. We don’t anticipate any problems for customers planning a journey on our services.”

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