The new look to Knaresborough road services saw the first of twenty Mercedes-Benz eCitaros, enter service on Monday the 18th of November 2024. Pictured below is number 1020, the last numerically of the batch is seen on Boroughbridge Road. Working the revised 1C service which serves the Stockwell and Pastures estates in the North Yorkshire town.
The introduction of these buses is part of a multi-million-pound programme to deliver cleaner, greener travel—and it couldn’t come at a better time as this ambitious rollout comes just days after Transdev picked up the prestigious Environment Award at the Routeone Awards, a national recognition of their efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
A Customer-Centric Approach
Vitto Pizzuti, Transdev’s Operations Director, is clearly proud of the new fleet:
“We’re excited to introduce the first of these stunning new vehicles into service today on our route 1, delivering a revolution in quality for our customers while dramatically cutting our carbon footprint.
“At the development stage, we received valued feedback from our customers and several of their suggestions have been incorporated into our bespoke interior design.
“This interior specification has been carefully devised to make travelling by bus comfortable, accessible and attractive, with fast and free Wi-Fi and USB device charging, custom-designed seating in a part leather, part moquette design unique to us, a hearing loop and two colour audio-visual information screens, one facing the wheelchair space, giving constantly updated journey information. Each bus also features extensive safety systems, including electronic pedestrian and cyclist detection and automatic collision avoidance technology.
“Under the surface, there’s a powerful, zero emission electric motor which can provide all-day battery life – important for our busy routes. We’re confident that our customers will love their new electric buses, and we’ll continue their rollout in the weeks to come.”
The new buses aren’t just green—they’re designed to make every journey more enjoyable. With free Wi-Fi, USB charging and custom-designed seating, passengers can ride in comfort and style.
This shot is of eCitaro 1009, seen returning to Harrogate passing the 1930's built Odeon cinema, while working the 1A route.
Safety and Performance
Each bus is equipped with a hearing loop for passengers with hearing aids, as well as colour audio-visual screens that display live journey information. One of these screens is positioned to face the wheelchair space, ensuring accessibility for all.
Safety is a major focus too. Electronic systems detect pedestrians and cyclists, while collision avoidance technology works to prevent accidents before they happen.
At the heart of the eCitaro is its electric motor, which runs on advanced batteries designed to last all day. Unlike traditional diesel engines, electric motors produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing pollution while offering a much quieter ride.
History of Route 1
The origins of Harrogate’s route 1 can indeed be traced back to 1906 when the Harrogate Road Car Company launched a service using Clarkson steam buses. This innovative mode of transport quickly gained popularity, prompting the addition of more steam vehicles by 1907. Over time, the service evolved, linking areas such as Bilton, Jennyfield and Knaresborough.
By 2001, the route was divided into 101 and 102 to serve local estates and in 2010, frequencies improved significantly, with services becoming the 1A, 1B and 1C. In 2019, the 1D was introduced, but post-COVID adjustments now see the combined routes operating every ten minutes between Harrogate and Knaresborough, maintaining their vital role in the community.
More Than Just Route 1
The launch of these single-deckers is part of a broader £21 million investment programme, which will introduce both single and double-deck electric buses across Harrogate. Transdev recently showcased one of its new double-deckers—destined for route 36 linking Harrogate with Leeds and Ripon—as show below at Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham.
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| Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador) |
When the rollout is complete, the 20 new single-deckers will replace diesel buses on route 1, with routes 7 and 24 set to follow. The result? Reduced emissions and a cleaner, quieter and greener transport experience for passengers.
What Makes Electric Buses a Game-Changer?
For those less familiar, electric buses operate with a high-capacity battery powering the motor instead of a diesel engine. This means zero exhaust emissions and a quieter ride. Charging happens overnight, with top-up facilities available throughout the day if needed.
Transdev’s investment includes not only the buses but also the infrastructure to support them. Their Harrogate depot has been upgraded with the latest charging equipment, ensuring smooth operations.
Funding the Future
The move to electric has been supported by the Government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) fund. In partnership with North Yorkshire Council, this funding helps cover the significant cost of transitioning to electric, from vehicles to infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
As Transdev continues to invest in greener transport, they’re setting a high standard for the industry. Keen to see for yourself? Route 1’s timetable and fares are available at transdevbus.co.uk/harrogate or via the Transdev Go app. Prefer paper? I'm reliably informed that printed timetables are also available on board and at Harrogate Bus Station.
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