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First electric buses arrive in Guernsey marking the start of fleet transformation

Peter Knight from Stagecoach, deputy Adrian Gabriel and the new electric bus.

Guernsey’s first electric buses will hit the roads shortly, following driver training and route testing.

The Enviro-100-EVs bought by the States can travel up to 300 miles on one charge while an average day's mileage is 150 for a typical Guernsey bus.

This model was trialled on the island two years ago.

Their introduction is a part of the States' commitment to reduce emissions by 57% from 1990 levels by 2030.

The plan is to replace the current fleet with electric vehicles, but there is no timeline for when this will be.

President of Environment & Infrastructure, Deputy Adrian Gabriel, says the fleet transformation will be good for the environment and the public purse.

"These are zero emissions, and transport is the main contributor to direct emissions.

"For pedestrians, there will be no diesel fumes blowing in their faces when a bus passes them, and the ride is smooth, not jerky, rattly or noisy.

"Lifetime costs of running these vehicles are much, much less than running a diesel bus.

"Every time you service a diesel bus, you're using 13 litres of oil, you've got fuel expenditure, this will have none of that.

"Of course, you're purchasing electricity, but that's pretty much the only cost."

The Enviro-100-EVs are capable of transporting 42 passengers, with on-board CCTV, USB ports and enhanced standing space.

The first two electric buses will enter regular use once the drivers feel confident driving them and all the routes have been tested.

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