Grayling hails low emission bus ‘revolution’

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling has said that low emission buses are a central part of the government’s ‘green revolution’.

The minister made the comments during a visit to the Wrightbus factory in Ballymena, Northern Ireland today (2 November) where a number of low emission buses for councils and bus operators across the UK are being developed.

Chris Grayling (right) investigates a bus engine at the Wrightbus factory in Ballymena

Some 70 of the vehicles are being built as a result of more than £40 million in government funding 2016 and 2017 under the Low Emission Bus Scheme (LEBS).

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “I am determined to push forward with a green revolution in transport, and low emission buses are an important part of our plans.

“We have already provided funding for over 450 low emission buses through the Low Emission Bus Scheme, with hundreds more to be funded by the next round of the scheme which we will be launching in the coming months.

“New greener buses will be more comfortable for passengers, they are cost-efficient and are good for the environment. It has been fascinating to witness first-hand how these vehicles are made.”

Speaking at the time of the visit Wrights Group Chairman and CEO Mark Nodder said: “It was a great privilege to show the Secretary of State for Transport the latest zero-emission bus technology produced by Wrightbus. This is a glimpse of the future where buses will have a pivotal role to play in reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality.”