Jersey Gets Electric Buses

Electric buses have been added to the LibertyBus fleet and will be on the roads next week.

From Monday ( 4 December) islanders will be able to catch new Sigma-8 buses, which have more services to improve passenger experience.

The latest additions were added in a 'pivotal' step towards green public transport, helping the island meet its net carbon goals.

Kevin Hart, Director of LibertyBus, says this represents a significant milestone in the company's ongoing commitment to sustainable travel.

"The adoption of electric buses not only aligns with our environmental responsibilities but also enhances the overall travel experience for our passengers."

The buses cost the company £335,000 each, and the charge time for the CATL 210 kWh battery is around 4 hours, although this will be able to last 160 miles.

"There's no diesel heaters or anything like that in it. It's all-electric, which is great."

So, [it is] a pretty penny, but obviously you've got fuel savings, etc, and things to offset the overcharge of running diesel buses and electric buses, so, in the long term, hopefully, they should work out as equal."

Omitting fossil fuels also reduces air pollution, noise and the company's overall carbon footprint.

Islanders will spot USB charging points on the 26-seater buses for their electronic devices. Customers will find the charge points on every seat to connect to and fill up their batteries on trips.

People can also stay updated on the latest travel information with the Passenger Announcement System and Passenger Information Display.

The announcement system will tell passengers about upcoming stops, road diversions and other information.

Details of bus departures from the Liberation Bus Station and flights from Jersey Airport will be displayed on the Passenger Information Board.

These additions, and the Induction Loop, help to make the buses more accessible for people with disabilities.

The new loop supports improved hearing and communication for people with hearing impairments.

People with hearing aids fitted with a 'T' switch can get direct transmission of announcements over the systems.

Induction Loop symbol

Further improvements include Camera Monitor System mirrors, which will help drivers on Jersey's infamous narrow roads, reducing the risk of collisions.

Minister for Infrastructure Deputy Tom Binet says he is really pleased with the progress that has found suitable electric buses to join the fleet.

"Successfully bringing these buses into service is the culmination of hard work and perseverance to overcome some of the challenges we have in Jersey with our narrow roads, and I am looking forward to seeing them serve the Island."