First Bus is partnering with Yutong and Zenobe in an exciting and innovative approach to vehicle electrification. Together they will roll out nine new electric buses, produced by Yutong UK and Pelican Engineering, in Hunslet Park, Leeds in May 2020.
 
The vehicles will be part of FirstGroup's successful Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme (ULEB) funding announced earlier this year. Charging infrastructure and on-board batteries will be match-funded and installed by Zenobe Energy. Leeds City Council's 'Clean Air Leeds' initiative was set up to tackle the issue of the city's air pollution to help improve air quality in the city.
 
Jon Harman, Head of Fleet at First Bus, said: ‘First Bus is proud to be helping to improve air quality in Leeds with these new vehicles, which will benefit from innovative electrification technologies. We are delighted to be partnering with Pelican and Zenobe in this joint venture.’
 
Ian Downie, Head of Yutong Bus UK, commented: ‘Pelican is delighted to receive this valuable order from First Bus. The supply of our zero-emission vehicles, with electric air conditioning, will not only improve the air quality but will provide an enhanced passenger experience.’
 
Steven Meersman, the co-founder of Zenobe Energy, said: ‘Zenobe is excited to support First Bus in implementing its' successful ULEB bid at Hunslet park with our infrastructure-as-a-service-model, reducing risk and upfront cost while achieving a zero-emission transition.’