First to overhaul Aberdeen depot in bid to replace almost 150 diesel buses with electric models

First Bus has formed plans to revolutionise its Aberdeen fleet, with proposals to overhaul its depot to serve 148 electric vehicles.

Earlier this year, the firm pledged to invest more than £10.5 million in new fully electric and zero-emission buses in the city.

Bosses have now lodged plans with Aberdeen City Council that could pave the way for 148 energy-efficient models to charge at the King Street base.

They would replace the same number of diesel engines, significantly reducing the level of fumes entering the atmosphere.

How Aberdeen depot will be adapted for First Bus electric dream

Taking the initial step on the road to a greener future, First is asking the local authority for permission to build five substations, feeder pillars and chargers to facilitate the change.

The documents explain: “The yard area will be relined and provided with a number of islands with EV charging units provided to charge the new bus fleet.”

In February, First announced it hoped to have the new vehicles in force by the spring of 2024. 

This has been made possible following a successful bid for Transport Scotland’s Scottish Zero Emission Bus (ScotZEB) Challenge funding.

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King Street a ‘key part of future plans’

Speaking at the time, Duncan Cameron, managing director for First Bus Scotland, said: “Aberdeen is where our business was founded, and this investment will further enhance its growing number of zero-emission buses within the fleet.

“Our King Street depot remains a key part of our future plans as we build towards a zero-emission future.”

It comes after Edinburgh-based coach operator Ember, which runs the world’s only fully electric fleet, was given permission to create a new depot at Bridge of Don.

You can see the plans here.