London Unveils Electric Buses For Route 358 (2024)

London marks the dawn of a new era in its public transport system with the launch of the much-anticipated electric buses on route 358. These innovative vehicles have been dubbed "tram buses" due to their tram-like appearance and advanced technology.

Starting operation on Wednesday, the route connects Crystal Palace to Orpington, running on one of the longest bus routes in the city at 15 miles. This rollout is part of Transport for London’s (TfL) commitment to creating cleaner, greener transport options for Londoners.

The new electric buses, known as the Irizar ie tram bus, were manufactured by Spanish company Irizar and incorporate cutting-edge pantograph charging technology. This system allows the buses to be charged at both ends of the route, dramatically reducing downtime and eliminating the need for longer return trips to charging depots. Instead of the usual charging time, these buses can recharge their batteries within approximately six minutes, providing enough power for extended operation throughout the day.

According to Lorna Murphy, director of buses at TfL, the deployment of these new vehicles is not only about innovation but also focuses on enhancing the customer experience. "These buses are absolutely fantastic. They have numerous features for customers, making them a valuable addition to our fleet. It’s exciting to see this technology help us meet our ambitious zero-emission goals for London," she said.

Equipped with numerous safety features, the new buses come fitted with speed-limiting technology, camera systems providing greater visibility for drivers, and audible alerts to warn pedestrians and cyclists of the bus's presence. These enhancements align with the Mayor’s Vision Zero goal of eradiciting deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads.

At the heart of this initiative is Mayor Sadiq Khan’s commitment to achieving zero emissions across London’s bus fleet by 2030. Although funding constraints currently push this ambition to at least 2034, the mayor’s vision remains clear. "Electrifying our bus fleet is key to cleaning up London’s air quality," said Khan.
To support these developments, modifications have been made at Orpington bus station. This involves setting up the pantographs and charging infrastructure, which are primarily located at designated stops along the route. The buses have been described as having large windows and smooth lines, which not only contribute to their sleek look but also make them safer for cyclists and pedestrians.

Experts believe the deployment of these tram buses sets a precedent for future conversions of other bus routes across London. The primary objective is to utilize electric buses more extensively, showcasing the shift from traditional fuel sources to electric alternatives as part of London’s broader strategy to tackle climate change.

With 20 electric buses now deployed, Go-Ahead London, the operator of the 358 route, has ambitious plans. Managing director Tom Joyner stated, "We are committed to leading the transition to zero-emission buses, and seeing these new vehicles hit the streets is exciting. Currently, we operate 636 electric vehicles across our network."

The introduction of the tram buses is more than just about innovation; it reflects London’s status as one of the leading cities for electric transport solutions globally. The capital already boasts the largest zero-emission fleet in Western Europe, with over 1,700 electric buses utilizing battery power and other eco-friendly technologies.

Rosie Allen, principle policy adviser at Green Alliance, commented on the significance of route 358, saying, "Putting electric buses on longer routes is groundbreaking. It shows London is pushing boundaries to facilitate fossil fuel-free urban transport, making strides toward sustainability and cleaner air for communities."

The pantograph technology itself was previously piloted on London's bus network and has proven reliable. It allows buses to charge at high speeds, making it feasible for longer routes where traditional charging methods would not suffice.

Liam Conlon, Labour MP for Beckenham and Penge, also expressed his enthusiasm for the new buses, highlighting their potential for enhancing air quality and safety for local residents as the route runs through diverse neighborhoods.

The trial for the route began earlier this year, originally slated for launch earlier. Due to delays linked to engineering challenges and driver training, the buses were officially rolled out recently. The commitment from TfL and its partners to overcome these obstacles reflects the dedicated push toward achieving cleaner transportation solutions.

Advertising support for the new buses will be visible across the route, reminding passengers and the public of the substantial advancements being made. The electric buses not only contribute to reducing emissions but also promise to provide modern and safe public transportation alternatives for Londoners.

Overall, London's ambitious rollout of the new electric buses on route 358 symbolizes significant progress toward meeting environmental targets, improving public transport, and enhancing air quality across the city. Each of these buses serves as a witness to the pivotal changes occurring within the urban transport sector, proving not just beneficial for commuters, but integral to the city's sustainable future.