All of First Kernow’s 30 brand-new double decker buses will be operating across their network throughout Cornwall this week. The £7.4m investment represents the first stage of the bus operator’s long-term commitment to introducing environmentally-friendly buses in the region.
The new vehicles are equipped with a number of exciting technology features which passengers will be able to experience for the first time on First Kernow buses. The benefits range from Wi-Fi access and USB charging points to allow web browsing and charging during the journey, as well as tables to offer a mobile office option for those travelling on longer journeys.
The buses are fitted with the latest Euro VI engines, which produce 95% less oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions compared to buses with Euro V engines, and as a result will help improve air quality along the routes. The buses also have start-stop technology, which cuts out the engine when a bus is stationary, further reducing emissions.
Acting on feedback from passengers, the company also decided to remove the security screen that separates the driver from passengers for a more personable service.
The brand new buses are already in service operating on the U1/U2/U3 (Falmouth, Penryn, Truro) and 14/18 (Penzance, St Ives, Hayle, Camborne, Redruth, Truro) routes.
Speaking about the investment, Alex Carter, managing director of First Kernow, commented: “We are extremely proud to introduce these state-of-the-art brand-new buses into Cornwall. Our loyal customers have long awaited this major upgrade in the quality of vehicles which provide services on two of our key corridors. We’re sure the eye-catching appearance of the buses and the new technology will encourage those who don’t frequently use the bus to give it a try. WE expect this investment to increase the numbers of passengers travelling with us. The onboard Wi-Fi and charging features will certainly prove popular with customers old and new.”
He added: “These buses are the first stage of a programme of fleet and infrastructure investment in public transport with our Cornwall Council partners. We look forward to building on our strong relationship with the council and we’re already planning more innovative environmental solutions and service quality improvements in 2017.”
In 2016, First Bus received recognition for its environmental efforts at the UK Bus Awards, and recently First Bus was crowned ‘Low Carbon Vehicle Operator of the Year’ for leading the industry’s drive to introduce cleaner vehicles, improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and improve air quality in towns and cities across the UK. First Bus operates the largest fleet of DfT-certified ‘Low Carbon Buses’ nationwide.