Metroline launches first electric bus in Hertfordshire

UK bus operator Metroline has announced the launch of its first electric bus outside of London on 11 January 2022. The new zero-emission single-deck bus on the Route PB1 has entered service in Hertfordshire and will be operating from Metroline’s Potters Bar Bus Garage.

Metroline’s credentials as the operator of London’s most environmentally friendly fleet, which includes 90 electric vehicles and 20 hydrogen powered vehicles, makes them well positioned to launch Hertfordshire’s first fully electric route.

The new electric bus was decided upon as part of Metroline’s renewed agreement with Hertfordshire County Council to continue operating the Route PB1 in Potters Bar and the surrounding area. First launched in 1977, Route PB1 is an essential route for the people of Potters Bar, as it allows easy access for all and enables those without any cars or other means of transport to travel independently.

The route has 32 stops with a total duration of just under 30 minutes, serving the High Street with access to local shopping, doctor’s surgery and other amenities. With a forecast range of at least 150 miles on a single charge, the bus can seat up to 24 passengers – well suited to serve the community of Potters Bar.

Furthermore, the bus is charged by the same power supplies that serve the other electric buses at Potters Bar garage. In order to ensure the garage’s energy demand remains moderate, charging takes place during the night and other periods of low local demand. As the UK’s reliance on renewable energy increases, the environmentally friendly credentials and sustainable benefits of all electric buses will continue to increase.

 “We are delighted to be launching our first electric bus outside of London into service on Route PB1. As our first electric bus on Hertfordshire’s roads, we are proud that Metroline is able to play a role in making the county more environmentally friendly and helping to keep the air clean for our customers and residents,” said Andrew Hunter, Group Performance and Commercial Development Director at Metroline.