High-Speed Charging Technology Powers New Electric Buses on 358

London’s iconic red buses are going electric and the latest addition to the fleet is turning heads. From today, the Wednesday 20th of November, stylish, tram-like electric buses are running on the 358 route between Crystal Palace and Orpington. These futuristic vehicles aren’t just a step forward—they’re a leap into a cleaner, greener and safer future for the capital’s public transport.

Transport for London

What sets these buses apart isn’t just their sleek, modern design. They’re powered by pantograph technology, a charging system that’s being rolled out on a London bus route for the very first time. The word “pantograph” might sound a bit technical, but the idea is simple. Picture a robotic arm extending from the bus roof to connect with an overhead charger. In just six minutes, the bus is ready to roll again. This rapid charging happens at either end of the 15-mile route, cutting out the need for buses to head back to the depot.

This system doesn’t just save time—it’s efficient. Fewer buses are needed to keep the route running, meaning Transport for London (TfL) can reinvest savings into other parts of the network. Cleaner air and a smoother commute? It’s a win-win for everyone.

Safer, Smarter, More Comfortable

These buses aren’t just good for the planet. They’re designed with safety and comfort in mind, setting a new benchmark for public transport. Safety features include speed-limiting technology, cameras that replace traditional mirrors and audible warnings to alert pedestrians and other road users. The front-end design of the buses has also been upgraded to improve visibility for drivers and minimise risks to vulnerable road users.

Inside, it’s all about the details. Slip-resistant floors, improved seating and USB charging ports are just the start. There are even palm-operated assistance buttons to make travel easier for those who need a helping hand. Every aspect has been thought through to make journeys safer and more inclusive.

These changes align with TfL’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads. The introduction of these buses is a key part of that plan, showing how modern technology can help create a safer city.

A Green Giant

London already boasts the largest zero-emission bus fleet in Western Europe, with over 1,700 electric buses in operation. These vehicles are crucial in tackling the city’s toxic air pollution and addressing the climate emergency. Buses like these carry up to 80 times the number of passengers as a car while using just three times the space. It’s not just about cutting emissions; it’s about reducing congestion too.

Route 358 is the latest milestone in the Mayor of London’s ambitious target to make the entire bus fleet zero-emission by 2030. This vision doesn’t just stop at cleaner buses. TfL is also investing in 25km of new bus lanes by 2025, upgrading interchanges and improving bus stops to create a better overall experience for passengers.

The Superloop, a network of express bus services introduced earlier this year, is another piece of the puzzle. These routes link key transport hubs across outer London, adding more than six million kilometres of bus journeys annually. Nearly half of Superloop trips connect with other public transport, showing how buses are a crucial part of a bigger, greener transport network.

Partners in Progress

The 358 route isn’t just about new buses. It’s a collaboration between TfL, Go-Ahead London and Irizar e-mobility, the Spanish company supplying the 20 new Irizar ie Tram buses. Pantograph chargers at Crystal Palace and Orpington were installed by UK-based EO Charging. These innovations support over 3,000 jobs across the UK, from bus manufacturing in Ballymena, Falkirk and Yorkshire to infrastructure projects like this one.

Deputy Mayor for the Environment, Mete Coban, emphasised the broader impact of this project.

“Electrifying London’s bus fleet is key to the Mayor’s aims of cleaning up London’s toxic air and making London a net-zero carbon city by 2030. These state-of-the-art buses will benefit from technology to help them run for longer without being charged, making journeys more efficient, and will also feature multiple safety improvements. This is all part of our plans to continue building a safer, greener London for everyone.”

For Go-Ahead London, this is a moment of pride. Managing Director Tom Joyner explained:

“I am incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made this year in our journey toward a zero-emission future. Go-Ahead London is leading the way in driving the transition to zero-emission buses, with 636 electric vehicles now operating across our network. This includes the exciting launch of the 358 route and the expansion of our pantograph technology, both strong testaments to our commitment to cleaner air and healthier communities.”

The rollout also involves changes to Orpington bus station to accommodate the new charging infrastructure. Route 51 now departs from Stop F, while Stop E handles seven routes, including the 358. Stop D serves as the new departure point for routes like the R3 and R6. Small tweaks, but ones that ensure the station is ready for the future.

Transport for London

Why It Matters

The harmful effects of air pollution in London are no secret. Thousands of premature deaths each year are linked to poor air quality. These buses are a big step in the right direction, showcasing how public transport can tackle the climate crisis and improve health.

But it’s not just about clean air. These vehicles show how transport innovation can benefit everyone. From supporting jobs to improving safety and making travel more inclusive, this project ticks all the boxes.

If you’re in South London, keep an eye out for the sleek, red Irizar ie Trams on the 358. They’re not just buses—they’re a glimpse of a cleaner, greener future for London.