Hundreds of new, electric buses are coming to West Yorkshire as multi-million deal agreed

A deal to bring nearly 200 new electric buses to West Yorkshire for its new Weaver Network has been signed.
 
Mayor Tracy Brabin is backing UK manufacturing by signing an order with Wrightbus as part of the contract worth up to £100m.
 
The agreement will see the Northern Ireland-based company provide 193 single and double-decker electric buses to run as part of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s publicly-controlled fleet – a central part of the Weaver Network.
 
Each bus will have two wheelchair spaces and flexible space for pushchairs and luggage, as well as USB charging points.
 
The new buses will also feature the latest high-tech batteries which will deliver improved performance compared to previous electric bus models.
 
The agreement follows an announcement earlier this month that Weaver Network buses will be kitted out with seat covers made by West Yorkshire textiles firm Camira Fabrics.

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said:

"These beautiful new buses herald the start of a new era for public transport in a better-connected West Yorkshire.
 
“We’re proud to be buying from a UK firm – it’s another benefit of a publicly-controlled bus network.”
 
“I can’t wait to see them weaving their way through our streets in less than a year’s time.”

Wrightbus Managing Director Christian Reynolds said:

"This award reflects a clear commitment to UK manufacturing and the domestic supply chain in a highly competitive global market. Securing this contract enables us to demonstrate the strength, quality and competitiveness of UK-built zero-emission vehicles.
 
"For over 80 years, Wrightbus has sustained a nationwide supply chain, and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s successful franchising model ensures this economic contribution continues—driving investment, innovation and long-term industrial growth in the UK. We are proud to see these vehicles serving key routes in West Yorkshire."

The Weaver Network is the region’s new, integrated transport network - joining up buses, trains, a mass transit system, walking, wheeling and cycling under one name.
 
With less than a year to go until the first Weaver Network bus services launch, passengers will start to see more of the new-look transport brand appearing across the region. More than 150 green Weaver Network bus shelters are being installed across the region, replacing older or faulty shelters that are nearing the end of their lifespan.
 
Publicly controlled buses will be introduced in stages across West Yorkshire between Spring 2027 and late 2028. Timetables, fares and routes in the region will be set by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority rather than private operators, and will see money made from fares going back into improving services.
 
It also comes after tens of millions of pounds worth of infrastructure improvements were approved at a full Combined Authority meeting in March, which will see enhancements to roads to make it easier for those travelling on public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling.