Warrington’s Own Buses has officially rolled out the first wave of its all-electric fleet, a momentous stride toward greener urban transport backed by the town’s purpose-built electric bus depot. Marking a true milestone for public transport, the 105-vehicle order of Volvo BZL Electric buses is part of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area (ZEBRA) initiative, aiming to drastically cut emissions and noise pollution in towns across the UK.
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These buses aren’t just ordinary electrics. The Volvo BZL Electric platform is purpose-built to handle Warrington’s unique urban landscape, with a mix of 33 double-deckers and various single-deck models suited to different routes. For tighter turns and quieter streets, Warrington will be the first in the UK to run compact 9-metre single-deckers alongside the more traditional 10.8 and 12.1-metre models.
Each bus is equipped with modular batteries, optimised for their specific routes, meaning whether it’s a shorter, stop-heavy route or a longer commute, these buses are designed to keep things moving smoothly while reducing emissions and operating quietly.
The Volvo BZL’s electric driveline is built for efficiency, with a two-stage gearbox that gently distributes power, extending battery life and creating a much smoother, quieter experience for passengers. Not only does this make journeys more pleasant, but it also contributes to the Council’s goal of minimising noise pollution—making public transport a quieter, cleaner presence on Warrington’s roads.
At the heart of this transformation is Warrington’s new £10 million electric bus depot. Designed specifically for the needs of an all-electric fleet, the depot features high-powered charging stations and tailored maintenance facilities to ensure smooth operations across the board. This purpose-built structure, funded in part by the Government’s Getting Building Fund, is the first of its kind in the UK and stands as a testament to Warrington Borough Council’s commitment to a low-carbon, sustainable transport system.
One of the most innovative aspects of this depot is its power source. The Council has invested in local solar farms, enabling the depot to harness renewable energy to keep the fleet charged and ready. This locally generated electricity not only cuts down on emissions further but creates a self-sustaining model that can be replicated by other councils across the UK. By using renewable energy for their zero-emission buses, Warrington is setting a new benchmark in public transport sustainability.
Warrington Borough Council has been on a mission to make public transport the go-to option for locals and these new buses are a significant step in that direction. Through initiatives like the “Better By Bus” campaign, which caps fares and increases service frequency, the Council is making public transport more accessible and attractive. The ZEBRA-backed fleet of Volvo BZLs strengthens the Council’s commitment, taking it beyond words and putting real, positive change on the road.
As Council Leader Hans Mundry explains, this shift towards all-electric public transport aligns with the broader mission of making Warrington a “zero city,” where residents enjoy cleaner air and quieter streets. Mundry has expressed pride in these developments, calling it a transformative moment not only for Warrington but for the UK’s approach to urban transit.
Warrington’s electric fleet and purpose-built depot provide a blueprint for sustainable transport across the country. With backing from Thomas Hardie Commercials for ongoing service and maintenance, the Council is prepared to ensure that this fleet remains efficient, reliable and operational for years to come. By combining public and private support, a state-of-the-art depot and the versatile Volvo BZL platform, Warrington is demonstrating that a zero-emission transit system isn’t just a dream—it’s a viable, sustainable reality.
So, the next time you’re in Warrington, hop on board and enjoy a cleaner, quieter journey. These bright yellow buses aren’t just a mode of transport; they’re a symbol of Warrington’s commitment to a greener future, setting a path that towns and cities all over the UK can follow.
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