The new vehicles, which will be seen out on service around the city from today (12 July), are set to save nearly 1,500 tonnes of CO2e per year as they replace older diesel buses.

The electric buses, which have been manufactured by Yutong, are fitted with market-leading lithium iron phosphate batteries boasting a range of over 370km on a single, three-hour charge.

They were launched into service by Aberdeen City Council Co-Leaders Cllr Christian Allard and Cllr Ian Yuill alongside First Bus Scotland Managing Director Duncan Cameron.

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Cllr Ian Yuill said: ‘It’s great to see the introduction of the 24 new electric vehicles to First’s fleet. These new electric buses will make a positive contribution as Aberdeen moves towards its net zero targets.

‘First’s investment in non-polluting electric buses not only reduce the emissions on our roads. It will hopefully encourage more people onto the bus and out of their cars as they move around Aberdeen.’

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Cllr Christian Allard added: ‘Increasing the number of zero-carbon vehicles in our transport network improves air quality and leads to health benefits and a more pleasant place to live for us all.

‘The new buses add to the 15 hydrogen vehicles already in use, showcasing the capabilities of different types of low-carbon vehicles for use in public transport on our streets.’

Sign up here to receive our free weekly news bulletin.