Scotland’s largest bus operator, McGill’s, will be trialling its first zero local-emission bus on the busy 38 route into Glasgow City Centre. Built by Yutong, China’s largest bus and coach manufacturer, the electric bus will receive feedback on customer perception and will trial drivability and operating costs.

The single decker consists of features such as no engine noise or vibration, resulting in a better passenger experience, as well as a greatly reduced impact on the environment. In addition, 80% of McGill’s current fleet is Euro 4 and above, all part of its greening strategy, which also coincides with Glasgow’s low emission zone strategy.

“McGill’s was the first Euro 6 bus operator in Glasgow back in 2014, and this is the first electric bus of this size and durability in Glasgow. However, it’s not about being first, I want to slash our impact upon the environment as quickly as possible and am very keen to see if this Yutong bus is the product to help us do that. Early indications are certainly very good,” said Ralph Roberts, McGill’s Managing Director.

McGill’s On-street team Manager, Stephen Docherty, also commented on the acquisition: “I really enjoyed driving it. It’s strange at first as there is no noise at all, but I got used to it very quickly and it was extremely smooth. I’ve spoken to customers who have travelled on this bus and they praised the comfortable and quiet journey to and from Glasgow – they gave it a big thumbs-up as have our drivers.”

Customers looking to board on the new zero-emission bus can do so at these times on Wednesday 4th, Thursday 5th and Friday 6th of July from: Paisley town centre – 09.13, 11.58, 13.43 and 16.28 and Glasgow, Union Street – 10.08, 12.53, 14.38 and 17.14. The GoZone 1 tickets are valid on the route.