After yesterday’s announcement on the new operator to run Manchester’s Metrolink, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced it will continue its partnership with bus specialist Optare to provide repair and maintenance for 104 hybrid and electric powered buses.
The seven year contract, worth £8million, was awarded to Optare following a competitive tendering process.
Transport leaders say they selected a supplier that puts customer safety at the forefront of its operation and can guarantee the longevity of hybrid and electric vehicles.
TfGM’s impressive fleet includes Versa hybrid 12m-long school buses and Versa 9.7m-long electric buses – the first fully electric, low access buses to be used in Manchester.
Electric buses have zero emissions at point of use and are also cheaper to run than diesel buses; hybrid-electric buses have proven to reduce harmful emissions by up to 30 per cent compared to diesel buses.
Howard Hartley, Head of Bus, said: “We’ve been happy with the performance and reliability of our buses, and the support we have received from Optare. They has the specialist knowledge required to deliver the best service for hybrid and electric buses.”
Graham Belgum of Optare said: “We are delighted that TfGM has renewed our contract and we look forward to continuing our long standing relationship. This ongoing commitment to Optare is a great testament to the quality and reliability of our services.”
