First Solent’s Electric Bus Fleet Hits Nearly 4 Million Journeys

What’s powering nearly four million journeys across Portsmouth, Gosport and Fareham? Not the usual fossil fuel suspects, but First Solent’s shiny new fleet of electric buses. 

First Bus

These 62 zero-emission Wrightbus Kite Electroliners have clocked over 1.3 million miles since their launch in March, all while dramatically reducing CO2 emissions—about 2,427 tonnes of WTW (Well-to-Wheel) carbon, to be precise. That's like taking thousands of petrol cars off the road.

This fleet rollout, the first of its kind in the region, was made possible thanks to a hefty £28.6 million investment. A chunk of that came from the Department for Transport’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme, with First Bus covering the rest.

The project didn’t stop at just delivering buses—it also electrified the Hoeford depot in Fareham, kitting it out with 66 rapid charging heads. The buses can juice up in just 2.5 hours and cover up to 200 miles on a full charge.

A Zero-Emission Milestone

Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said:

“This is the first time our region has introduced this level of clean, sustainable transport, and it’s success is a testament to the collective effort and commitment of all those involved. This project is a clear example of how working together across sectors and local authorities helps us deliver our vision of a people-centred, connected travel network—one that prioritises public transport. We are creating a transport service that puts people first and helps deliver a safer, healthier, and more accessible city for all.”

Portsmouth and Hampshire weren’t messing around with this initiative. Almost half of First Solent’s diesel fleet was swapped out for the 62 electric buses, marking a bold step forward for sustainability. And the local councils didn’t stop at deploying these buses; they’ve supported job creation, training opportunities and infrastructure development along the way.

First Bus

Hoeford Depot Goes Electric

Electrifying Hoeford depot was no small feat. Construction took place between October 2023 and May 2024—all while keeping buses running smoothly for passengers. The depot now boasts a futuristic setup with double-headed charging stations ready to keep the fleet humming.

Simon Goff, Managing Director for First Bus South, which operates First Solent buses, said:

“By replacing diesel buses with zero-emission vehicles, we’re playing our part in improving air quality for the communities we serve. Since launching the buses in March, we have been delighted at customer reaction to our smart new EV buses, which is shown by the numbers of people using them. They provide a comfortable and modern passenger experience, offering a quieter, smoother ride, and advanced audio-visual announcements. Our drivers love driving them, and the electrification of our Hoeford depot has transformed things for all our people.”

A Community Effort

The project was celebrated in style with an official launch event at the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower in Gosport. Guests, including local council representatives and transport leaders, got a sneak peek at the electric fleet in action. 

First Bus

After a depot tour showcasing the rapid charging infrastructure, attendees hopped on an EV bus along the Eclipse rapid transit route to see the transformation in public transport firsthand.

Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways and Waste, Councillor Lulu Bowerman, commented:

“The benefits of investment such as this alongside the investment made through Hampshire’s Bus Service Improvement Plan extend well beyond improving bus travel for passengers. Namely, the boost it has on the local economy by creating new jobs for more bus drivers, depot engineering staff and support staff. And, in developing the future workforce, equipping engineers with the skills to maintain electric vehicles.”

Meanwhile, Councillor Zoe Huggins, who oversees Hampshire’s climate initiatives, celebrated the project’s environmental impact:

“The great news about this project is that virtually 100% of bus services in Fareham, Gosport and parts of Portsmouth are provided by zero-emission buses.

“The area in which the electric buses operate has two Clean Air Zones, so the arrival of the fleet is great news for the environment and public health - helping to improve air quality, cut pollution and reduce carbon emissions. The project which was built on strong partnership work has also delivered green skills supporting the upskilling of a workforce and local jobs, this is an amazing achievement.”

Wrightbus: The Engine of Change

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Wrightbus, was thrilled about the milestone:

“For the First Solent buses to have made almost four million journeys in their first months of operation is truly remarkable. We know that every zero-emission Wrightbus that leaves the factory and enters service makes a positive impact on lowering emissions and improving air quality in communities across the UK and beyond. It’s great to hear that feedback from customers in Portsmouth, Gosport and Fareham has been positive. Passengers who use these buses not only get a smoother ride, but they also know that every journey they make is helping to reduce emissions for a greener future.”

A Cleaner, Greener Future

The numbers speak for themselves. Virtually 100% of bus services in Fareham, Gosport and parts of Portsmouth now run on electric power. That’s progress.

With nearly four million journeys already under their belts and counting, these zero-emission buses are proving that sustainability doesn’t just benefit the planet—it creates jobs, improves air quality and enhances the passenger experience. What’s not to like?

This project stands as a powerful example of how bold investment and collaboration can deliver real change. Could your town be next?