British Bus Market Sees Surge in Sales, Leading Europe in Zero Emission Models
The British bus market is on a roll, with new sales soaring by over 61 per cent in the second quarter of the year. This surge in demand is not just a one-off, but part of a larger trend that has seen new bus sales steadily rise since the beginning of 2023. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) attributes this growth to increased operator confidence following the disruptions caused by the covid pandemic.
Government support has also played a crucial role in driving this boom in bus sales. Initiatives such as the Bus Fare Cap Grant and funding schemes for zero emission models have incentivized operators to invest in new buses, coaches, and minibuses. In fact, sales of zero emission electric and hydrogen models have seen a significant increase of 36 per cent year-on-year, with the UK leading the European green bus market.
The SMMT believes that buses are leading the way in Britain’s road vehicle decarbonization, thanks to their depot-based operations and consistent routes. With the right incentives and infrastructure in place, buses could be the first vehicle sector to reach net zero emissions.
However, there are challenges ahead, particularly for smaller and rural bus operators who may struggle to fund new vehicles and infrastructure. The SMMT is calling on the government to set out a clear timetable for decarbonizing bus fleets across all regions and operators to support the UK’s net zero goals.
In contrast to the success of the bus market, sales of electric vans have slowed down, falling almost 15 per cent year-on-year in July. This is a stark contrast to the growth seen in zero emission HGVs, which rose by 30 per cent in the same period.
If you’re interested in learning more about the transition to a net zero economy, you can sign up to attend the fifth annual Net Zero Festival hosted by BusinessGreen on October 22-23 in London. This event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the latest developments in sustainability and decarbonization.
Overall, the future looks bright for the British bus market as it continues to lead the way in green transportation. With the right support and incentives, buses could pave the way towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the UK.