Tag: transport

BELFAST FIRM DEMONSTRATES SAFE AUTOMATED TRANSPORT AT FARNBOROUGH AIRSHOW

Belfast-based ANGOKA, cyber security experts in land and air mobility, has landed at Farnborough Air Show, the world-leading annual aviation industry exhibition. The ANGOKA delegation is demonstrating its latest technologies which protect connected and automated drones and aircraft from cyber intrusions, hack attacks and other unplanned events to an international audience.

Yuri Andersson says he is grateful to InvestNI for the opportunity. “We are here to display ANGOKA’s cybersecurity technology for machine-to-machine communication, an essential factor without which the safe operation of future uncrewed aircraft is impossible.”

“Our communication device for drones combines secure terrestrial and non-terrestrial 5G will be demonstrated and we will also show how ANGOKA’s solution can secure remote operation of vehicles, including a live hack,” says Mr Andersson.

ANGOKA is a major player in the UK Government’s Future Flight programme and is pressing for new regulations which will allow faster development of the drone sector.

“We’re constantly working to keep the skies safe through the highest standards of cybersecurity. We are seeing increasing demand for wider adoption of varied drone use across different industries, which requires Beyond Visual Line of Sight operation. It is essential to maintain a secure communication to ensure the safety of that operation.” he says.

ANGOKA is located in Hall 1 Booth 1321.

National Express West Midlands Renews & Expands Partnership with CitySwift to Optimise Performance using AI

CitySwift, leader in performance optimisation for the public transport sector across the globe, has today announced the continuation of its partnership with National Express West Midlands (NXWM). The three year extension comes following impressive year-on-year results, including improved bus punctuality and efficiencies.

Since September 2023 NXWM’s use of CitySwift’s advanced AI and data technology has led to a reduction of more than 20% in late running, customer wait times have been reduced, and passengers per journey have increased. This follows strong results from previous years and consequently NXWM is now rolling out CitySwift’s platform across its entire fleet of over 1,400 buses.

As a leader in the largest UK urban bus market outside of London, NXWM provides on average 210 million bus passenger journeys per year across the West Midlands and has worked collaboratively with CitySwift to develop best-in-class transport solutions that analyse passenger and service data, drive optimum performance, and delivers a much more efficient use of resources.

Speaking on today’s announcement, Alan Farrelly, CCO and Co-founder of CitySwift said “National Express West Midlands has been core to CitySwift’s product development since 2019, and we are thrilled to extend our partnership for a further three years. This next phase will enable National Express West Midlands to further strengthen their commitment to enhancing the public transport network and improving the passenger experience through our technology.”

The latest innovative CitySwift solution is Spotlight, a globally leading intelligent recommendation engine for bus network enhancements that is integral to building smart cities and regions of the future.

NXWM is the first UK transport operator to adopt Spotlight, with the West Midlands being the first region in the world to benefit, resulting in faster, more customer-centric choices that balance resources, passengers, cities, and operators.

Ed Rickard, Network Director at National Express, commented: “Our collaboration with CitySwift to deliver Spotlight for the benefit of bus users across the West Midlands, and in major cities across the UK, is a groundbreaking achievement for the National Express West Midlands and CitySwift teams.

We are delighted to continue working in partnership with CitySwift over the coming years and proudly leading the charge in the UK when it comes to the use of AI-powered data and insights that are key to an efficient, cost-effective delivery of bus service performance for customers across our network.”

Designed for schedulers; Spotlight improves scheduler decision-making by providing AI-powered insights into performance and resource considerations such as timeliness, cost, and vehicle numbers. It scans the entire network, delivering service optimisation options, and efficiency improvements.

Andy Foster, Director of Bus Planning at National Express, added: “We are excited to be extending CitySwift’s AI performance optimisation capabilities across our bus network in the West Midlands. Traffic conditions on our region’s roads have worsened and can negatively impact the reliability of our services.

However, using CitySwift’s AI analytics and optimisation tools our skilled schedulers and network planners have been able to respond effectively, maximising our productivity and efficiency while also reducing late running for customers that rely on our bus services.”

Founded in 2016 by Brian O’Rourke and Alan Farrelly, CitySwift’s performance optimisation platform gives operators and transport authorities insights, recommendations, and predictions, supporting them in the delivery of efficient, reliable and in-demand services.

CitySwift empowers public transport operators and authorities to achieve unparalleled efficiency by leveraging advanced analytics, simulations, and optimisations. With its easy-to-use industry-leading technology, CitySwift envisions a future where public transport is the travel mode of choice for all people.

Powered by AI data processing, CitySwift optimises over 1 billion passenger journeys annually, working with public sector transport authorities and private bus operators to break down the barriers to accessing and interpreting transport data, replacing manual analysis with reliable, actionable insights. This solution enhances efficiency, benefiting drivers, passengers, partners, and cities, whilst remaining human-centric throughout.

The renewed partnership with NXWM closely follows other developments for the Irish company, having opened its first UK office earlier this year in London and announcing additional partnerships with Transport North East, Transdev Blazefield, and trentbarton. Since its inception, CitySwift has grown to have a presence across the UK, US and its home territory of Ireland, covering transport networks in all major UK cities. Additionally, in February of this year CitySwift announced the close of its latest funding round of €7 million led by Gresham House Venture, as the company continues to scale for growth globally.

Leading supplier of IT solutions for public transport INIT to expand in Maynooth

INIT, worldwide leading supplier of integrated planning, dispatching, telematics and ticketing systems for buses and trains, have announced that they will increase their capacity in Maynooth, Co. Kildare.

Highly skilled software developers create applications for public transport projects around the world, including for ticketing and real-time passenger information systems for transport operators and authorities in cities including Honolulu, San Diego, Los Angeles, Seattle, Atlanta, Nottingham, Dublin, Hamburg, and New Zealand. INIT opened its first Irish office in 2018, their first software development centre outside Germany and employ 25 people. From today, the office capacity has increased with space to accommodate up to 60 employees and INIT is on the lookout for further talented Java and .Net cloud software engineers to continue their rapid growth. INIT is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD said: “I very much welcome INIT’s announcement that they will increase the number of employees to 60 as part of an expansion at their Maynooth facility. Since their establishment in Ireland in 2018, INIT have been providing vital IT solutions for public transport, and it is great to see them continue to thrive and grow in Kildare. The expansion will provide fantastic employment opportunities in the IT sector. Great news for INIT, Kildare and the wider region, I wish them all the best with this new expansion.”

Matthias Kühn, INIT COO, underlines the importance of INIT’s Ireland branch: “In just over five years, our subsidiary in Ireland has exceeded expectations. We see this as confirmation that Maynooth is the right place to develop our innovative solutions for public transport. Doubling the staff and more than doubling their office capacity in Ireland will help INIT pave the way for continued success in the future. We are looking forward to receiving applications from qualified specialists for our development centre.”

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: ‘’INIT’s plans to grow to up to 60 employees in their Maynooth office is great news for the region and indeed Ireland’s technology sector. IDA is very proud of Ireland’s reputation as a hub for technology. This expansion is a testament to the talent and skills that companies can find in Ireland and in Maynooth. ‘’

Even before establishing its subsidiary, INIT had strong ties with Ireland, including Dublin Bus (Bus Átha Cliath). In 2010, INIT implemented the first fleet management and real-time passenger information platform for the Greater Dublin Area.

Irish Transport Intelligence Provider CitySwift Accelerates Expansion with First UK Office Opening

CitySwift, the leading company in data intelligence for the public transport sector, has today announced the opening of its first UK office, located in central London. The expansion, heralding the creation of 50 new jobs, was marked by a celebratory event at the new office today, with Minister of Finance Michael McGrath in attendance as part of a broader Enterprise Ireland delegation. Enterprise Ireland is supporting CitySwift’s scaling journey in the UK.

The office, overlooking Paddington Station in London marks a new chapter in CitySwift’s journey, as the Galway-founded company looks to create 50 jobs in its offices both in the UK and Ireland over the next two years. These jobs will include roles in Data, Product, Engineering, Customer Success and Account Management.

Brian O’Rourke, co-founder and CEO at CitySwift, said: “This is the latest milestone in our journey at CitySwift, with our new office and partnership with Transport North East, we aim to reaffirm our continued dedication to delivering real value to our customers. We’ve seen incredible growth in the last year, having closed our latest funding round a few weeks ago and we are eager to drive on and focus on expanding CitySwift’s offering across the UK, and to continue growing our exceptional team.”

Founded by Alan Farrelly and Brian O’Rourke in 2016, CitySwift works with public sector transport authorities and private bus operators to break down the barriers to accessing and interpreting transport data. CitySwift’s platform aggregates, cleans and enriches data from hundreds of sources, providing both operators and authorities with an accurate single source of truth. Rapid access to accurate data across the entire network fuels this collaboration, enabling both parties to take a more dynamic, data-driven approach to move passengers away from private modes of transport to more sustainable, climate-friendly public transportation.

Speaking at today’s event, Minister of Finance, Michael McGrath, said following the ribbon cutting: “I am delighted to join the CitySwift team today to celebrate the opening of their new office space in London. Today’s expansion announcement is testament to the huge opportunities that await Irish exporters in the UK market and paves the way for CitySwift, a leader in data and machine learning for the public transport sector, to significantly scale its business internationally. The Government, through Enterprise Ireland, looks forward to continued engagement with CitySwift to support the growth of the business into the future.”

Deirdre McPartlin, Regional Director for UK & Nordics in Enterprise Ireland, added: “CitySwift is a great example of a company whose success can be directly attributed to a dedication to solve customer problems and deliver tangible benefits straight away. By demonstrating their ongoing commitment to their customers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland over a number of years, the leadership team have built enormous credibility across the whole market. The opening of this office in London is a critical next step in their ongoing growth in the UK. In Enterprise Ireland we are delighted to have been part of CitySwift’s success through our start-up, innovation and in-market support.”

In addition to the opening of this new office, CitySwift today has also announced its latest partnership with Transport North East (TNE), covering bus journeys across the North East region, including Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and County Durham. This partnership will support delivery of the objectives laid out in the North East Bus Service Improvement Plan, with CitySwift’s platform being leveraged to improve bus punctuality and increase passenger satisfaction. Additionally, CitySwift will work with TNE to monitor bus priority investment impact, examining congestion, passenger delays, and network pinch points.

Heather Jones, Head of Enhanced Partnerships at TNE, said on the announcement: “CitySwift’s platform offers Transport North East an exciting opportunity to use data to revolutionise bus services and enhance the overall passenger experience. Partnering with CitySwift aligns with the objectives of the North East Bus Service Improvement Plan, enabling us to address congestion, reduce passenger delays, and identify network pinch points more effectively. This collaboration will play a crucial role in delivering more efficient, sustainable, and customer-focused public transport to the communities we serve.”

This recent partnership marks a 150% increase in CitySwift’s customer base last year, which now includes transport networks in all major UK cities, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Belfast, and the entire country of Wales. Notable clients in addition to Transport North East include National Express, Go-Ahead Group, Transport for Wales, Metroline, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Translink, and Blackpool Transport.

This announcement comes during a busy period for the company, which has recently announced the close of its latest funding round of €7 million led by Gresham House Ventures. In addition to further expansion plans, these funds will fuel CitySwift’s platform development and client services, solidifying its position as a transportation data leader globally.

Box Truck Insurance: A Complete Guide for New Business Owners

Are you a new business owner looking to get your feet moving with box truck insurance? Making sure that your goods, equipment, and employees are properly protected is essential for the success of any organization, even if you do have access to a good truck accident lawyer.

With an array of coverage options available in the market nowadays, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide which path works best for you. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on box truck insurance!

From understanding what type of coverage is right for you and your unique business operations to learning how different providers determine premiums rates, this blog post will provide you with all the information necessary to confidently make an informed decision about your protection plan. Read on as we uncover everything there is to know about getting the right box truck insurance!

What is box truck insurance?

If you own a business that requires the use of box trucks, you should consider purchasing box truck insurance. This type of policy with coverage for box trucks offers protection for your vehicle, your employees, and your business as a whole. Without it, you could be left with significant financial losses if an accident were to occur.

Box truck insurance typically covers bodily injury and property damage liability, as well as collision and comprehensive coverage. With the right insurance policy, you can have peace of mind knowing that your business is protected from unexpected expenses and legal troubles.

Don’t take any chances when it comes to the safety and security of your business – invest in box truck insurance today.

Types of coverage included

As a business owner who operates a box truck, it’s essential to ensure that you have the most comprehensive insurance coverage to protect your company against potential risks. A box truck insurance policy typically includes several types of coverage, such as liability coverage, physical damage coverage, cargo coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Liability insurance covers damages caused to other people’s property or injuries sustained by other drivers in the event of an accident. Physical damage coverage takes care of repairs or replacements when your box truck is damaged in an accident or stolen. Cargo coverage, on the other hand, protects the goods you’re carrying in your box truck against damage or loss.

Lastly, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is crucial in scenarios where you’re involved in an accident with a driver who is either uninsured or doesn’t have adequate coverage to pay for any damages incurred.

To be eligible, you must meet the minimum insurance requirements set by your state and provide proof of compliance. Obtaining an operator’s license is also essential to legally drive and operate a box truck for commercial purposes. Ensuring all your documentation is current will help avoid penalties and keep your operations running smoothly.

What factors may affect the cost?

Box truck insurance can come at various costs. Several factors can influence those prices. Firstly, the type of truck and the goods it carries can impact the cost of coverage. Insurers consider the vehicle’s size, weight, and cargo items while calculating the premium.

Secondly, driving history also plays a role in securing an affordable insurance policy. Drivers with a clean track record and no previous claims can generally get lower rates. Lastly, insurance providers analyze geographical locations before determining the cost of the policy.

Theft rates, accident frequencies, and crime rates in the area can all impact the premium price. By understanding these contributing factors, individuals can better prepare themselves and make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing box truck insurance.

How to compare quotes from different insurers to find the best deal

With so many insurance companies offering various policies and deals, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. By comparing quotes from different insurers, you can find the best deal that suits your needs. However, it’s important to remember that the cheapest quote may not always be the best option.

When comparing quotes, consider factors such as the coverage offered, deductibles, and customer service reviews. It’s also a good idea to ask for discounts or bundle options that may lower the overall cost. Take the time to carefully review and compare each quote to make an informed decision and find the best deal for your insurance needs.

Keep in mind that prices can vary significantly – so make sure to shop around and compare different policies before making a final decision.

 

Securing adequate box truck insurance is an important part of running a business, but it can often be an overwhelming task. It’s important to be aware of the different types of coverage available and factors that may contribute to the cost so you can ensure you’re getting the best deal. Comparing rates from multiple insurers is a great way to get the most out of this essential service.

Lastly, remember to avoid any common mistakes when it comes to box truck insurance and take full advantage of any tips and tricks for saving money on your policy. By following these steps, you can rest assured knowing that your business operations are protected by the right insurance policy that’s tailored to your needs.

 

Esri Ireland revolutionises sustainable public transport projects for DBFL Consulting Engineers

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), is today announcing that it is transforming the delivery of more sustainable public transport projects for DBFL Consulting Engineers, one of Ireland’s leading consultancies for civil, structural and transportation engineering.

DBFL needed the ability to view, analyse, and share geospatial data and maps more extensively across both transportation and civil engineering projects. Esri designed a tailored solution based on its ArcGIS technology which is enhancing DBFL’s approach to complex project assessments. DBFL is extending its use of ArcGIS to gain insight into key issues such as sustainable transport.

For example, the technology has been used to visualise the proportion of people using private, public, and active transport for work trips in County Wicklow. The system is also enabling DBFL to analyse catchment areas and evaluate walking times to bus stops and train stations. It easily identifies barriers to public transport use and proposes new access routes for pedestrians and cyclists.

In addition, Esri’s ArcGIS is being used to conduct route, transport, and site audits in the field, including a recent audit of a proposed new cycle route in Dublin. Engineers can collect and upload data and images in real time from their mobile devices while walking these routes, and the information is uploaded directly to ArcGIS Online, a central system which can be accessed by all team members. DBFL is increasingly using the platform for communicating and sharing data with its clients.

Esri’s system is underpinning growth for DBFL, as the enhanced service offering is enabling the company to tender for an increasing number of projects. It’s more cost efficient as it accelerates the delivery of projects and reduces the need for written reports. Esri’s technology has also streamlined workflows for DBFL’s employees with increased collaboration and improved data sharing. DBFL anticipates that as many as 80 engineers, working on both transportation and civil engineering projects across the business, will use the technology as a vital part of their day-to-day work.

Danny Pio Murphy, Associate (Transportation), DBFL Consulting Engineers: “There is high demand for GIS analysis and digital mapping. Since expanding our use of ArcGIS, we have begun to attract more private and public sector clients who want GIS analysis and reports. ArcGIS Online is particularly effective for presenting our results in a non-technical way. Now that the technology is accessible to more engineers at DBFL, we can use it to add value to a larger number of projects, both in transportation and civil engineering. We are really pleased with the direction we are heading in; we are passionate about what we do and are happy that we can now make more use of ArcGIS to make cities safer and create a more sustainable world.”

 Jack Ffrench, Account Manager, Esri Ireland, said: “We are delighted to build on our valued partnership with DBFL Consulting Engineers. As one of Ireland’s leading engineering consultancies, the use of accurate and up-to-date geospatial data is crucial as its existing and prospective customers increasingly require geospatial data and analysis as part of new project specifications. By using ArcGIS, DBFL has been able to improve insights into complex engineering projects, lower costs, and scale its business. We look forward to continuing to build on this relationship and support the team in providing these important and innovative services.”

Ways Fleet Managers Can Improve Time Management

Time management is absolutely crucial across all areas of business. However, the parameters for it can vary slightly between departments. 

Fleet managers, in particular, have a sizeable undertaking before them. Not only do they need to save time in all of their work processes, but they also need to ensure that the cars they preside over run like clockwork and that drivers face no issues in their roles too. Their efficiency is other workers’ efficiency, too. 

Tech plays a role in certain areas here too. After all, many different aspects of the business world are becoming digitised, and fleet management is no exception. Optimising time management will require some measure of innovation. Here are some of the best ways fleet managers can improve time management.

Lease EVs 

The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is sometimes painted as a costly endeavour. However, in the enterprising world, time is money, and EVs save a significant amount of it. 

EVs can be safely charged overnight. Consequently, this drastically reduces the need for fleet drivers to pull over mid-journey and lose valuable commute time. It also means they can spend more time doing the part of the job they likely love most; cruising behind the wheel and seeing new places as the world rushes by. All of this might enable you to guarantee faster delivery times to customers and clients, too. 

Overhauling your gas-guzzling fleet to EV counterparts isn’t a hefty task. Read the ultimate guide for leasing an electric car written by LV ElectriX. Not only can it enlighten you of the perks of these efforts, but the guide can also instruct you on how to make the transition successful. They also manage your expectations when waiting for factory orders, giving you an idea of supply chain complications. Much more is discussed, too, and you can also browse leasing and insurance offers with them to secure your fleet EVs more efficiently.    

Optimise Route Potential

Optimum routes are always in flux. If fleet managers are constantly playing catchup with any changes, it can lead to a host of other logistical problems that they must overcome. 

The most obvious suggestion is to devise shortcuts for drivers to take. Still, this isn’t always the most viable path forward. After all, fines are now in place to reduce emissions in key areas, so certain roads that seemed primed to cut travel times shouldn’t be used. Research where those measures may apply as you optimise travel routes and ensure drivers only go where they’re allowed. Otherwise, you’ll no doubt have fines and related admin to sort. 

Furthermore, road closures can frequently materialise due to accidents or maintenance works. If these circumstances aren’t noted ahead of time, it can lead to a stressful series of diversions. Keep tabs on the health of the traffic in your firm’s areas of operations, and remind your workers to receive real-time updates, whether through smartphone notifications, live radio, or fleet management software (more on that later). That way, you won’t have to put other duties on hold as you scramble at the last minute to course-correct your drivers. 

Installing Fleet Trackers

You should trust your drivers to cruise along the most promising routes only. Still, there are other reasons to track their movements to improve time management. 

Fleet drivers can get lost or may even have their vehicles stolen. More than locations can be discerned too. The tech also provides statistics on how long engines have been left on and idle for and how much fuel is being consumed. All of this data can give you important insights into the fleet and reduce the amount of time you spend detecting irregularities, identifying the culprits, and generally tending to all other related fleet management duties. 

It’s important to be careful here about what trackers are used. Fleet drivers have been wrongly fired due to faulty GPS trackers incorrectly tracking their movements, leading superiors to believe unnecessary detours were taking place. Ensure you’re using a reputable supplier and perhaps have more than one system running in case of errors occur. 

Accommodate Fleet Management Software

Fleet managers must have a comprehensive overview of all the matters that require their attention. It all needs to be fed through to them in one centralised location. A state-of-the-art fleet management system provides those assurances for the most productive professionals in this arena.  

Optimising routes and keeping tabs on fleet trackers can all be done through a fleet management system. There are also custom reporting tools, routine maintenance notifications, and supports real-time updates about dangerous driving habits your workers may be practising. Very few things escape your notice here, which means you can address them all sooner. 

Because of the in-depth nature of fleet management software, you’ll have a better sense of the issues that immediately require your attention and a built-upon awareness of tasks that can be comfortably delegated elsewhere. Consider outsourcing some of the more tedious administration procedures to fleet management specialists. That way, you can devote more time to the most pressing issues your fleet management software highlights. 

CitySwift closes €5M Series A round and launches world’s first Mobility-Intelligence-as-a-Service platform

CitySwift, the Galway-based leader in data and artificial intelligence for the public transport sector, today announces the closure of its Series A funding round of €5M, bringing total funding to date to €8.5M.

Led by Act Venture Capital with all existing investors following including Declan Ryan’s Irelandia Investments, Mike McGearty, former CEO of CarTrawler, Enterprise Ireland and the Western Development Commission, the round will fast-track expansion plans to help the public transport industry build resilience against ongoing issues like fuel hikes, driver shortages, funding uncertainty, and Covid-19 recovery

Brian O’Rourke, CitySwift Co-Founder and CEO commented, “This new era of CitySwift is one where we are focused on preparing our partners for a greener, cleaner future of mobility, by matching supply and demand across their networks now. CitySwift strongly believes the future is bright for public transport, and Mobility Intelligence is the key that will unlock attractive, efficient, and green public transport across cities globally.

“Over the past decade, we have seen a significant shift in the way the world moves due to compounding crises such as climate change and the Covid19 pandemic. Cities worldwide have become more congested, travel patterns have changed, the cost of living has increased and sustainability is now a key issue of the political agenda. These shifts have presented us with an exciting opportunity. The public transport industry must rethink its traditional ways of operating and shift its focus from supply to demand in order to optimise networks for the future – and data is what will unlock these efficient and optimised networks. Private operators and public authorities require data-enriched insights to inform them on how to best adapt and operate their networks to provide more efficient, reliable and sustainable services,” added O’Rourke.

To coincide with the announcement, CitySwift has revealed new product announcements alongside a new visual identity and website. The new identity will take the company into its next phase as the world’s first “Mobility Intelligence as a Service” platform, blending the power of data and public transport together to prepare transport networks everywhere for the future of mobility.

The new suite of products includes CitySwift’s Evolve module that delivers scenario planning for AI-powered bus timetabling, and movement pattern simulation for accurately matching frequency with demand resulting in over 5x ROI, a 45% reduction in late buses and over 2% reduction in operating hours with existing clients – also equating to significant emission reductions, cost savings and increases in passenger demand in cities.

The company has also released the Discover offering, a range of dashboards catered to different pain points across transport organisations. These dashboards, which are already driving a massive spike in usage across CitySwift’s existing client base, include driver performance for punctuality insights and driver retention, and demand forecasting for understanding how service changes will impact passenger demand and revenue.

These new and upgraded products will help CitySwift to realise its vision of reducing global emissions from transport, supporting public transport networks to attract more people to choose public transportation over private car use.

Founded in 2016, CitySwift is a homegrown Galway headquartered company with a rapidly expanding team of 65 employees building an international roadmap. A market leader working with all the leading UK operators and Public Sector Authorities, the business has consistently doubled recurring revenue over the last 3 years and is expanding globally into Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and South East Asia. Listed as one of Linkedin’s Top Startups in Ireland, the company is currently hiring across Engineering, Commercial, and Product teams.

NTA has announced an agreement for 800 battery electric double decker buses.

.The National Transport Authority (NTA) has today announced an order for 120 double-deck battery-electric buses from Bamford Bus Company (trading as Wrightbus). These 120 buses are part of a framework agreement which provides for the procurement of up to 800 zero-emission battery-electric buses over a period of five years

The buses – Streetdeck Electroliner BEVs – will be manufactured and assembled at the Wrightbus facility in Galgorm, on the outskirts of Ballymena in Northern Ireland.

The framework agreement now in place between the NTA and Wrightbus has the potential to be the single biggest bus procurement in the history of the State. These will be the first battery-electric double-deck buses to be added to the national bus fleet in Ireland and their addition will deliver a significant uplift in the proportion of low- or zero-emission buses within that fleet.

This historic deal is a major component of the overall strategy to build a sustainable future by decarbonising the country’s PSO public transport fleet, and is in line with a number of key national policy directives including:

  • National Strategic Outcome 4 in the National Development Plan 2021 which provides for Sustainable Mobility through the delivery of greener and cleaner bus fleets;
  • Section 9.3.7 of the Climate Action Plan 2021 on the decarbonisation of public sector transport which says: ‘We will transition public bus fleets to zero emissions models though the renewal and expansion of the fleet, allowing for the full electrification of double-decker buses in Dublin, Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Galway by 2035’;
  • Section 12.2.4 of NTA’s Draft GDA Transport Strategy on zero-emission buses which says: ‘2022 will see the introduction of fully electric single and double deck fleet and the ongoing conversion of bus depots to charge and maintain the new vehicle types’; and
  • Action 13 and 14 of the National Sustainable Mobility Action Plan 2022 which provide for the transition of PSO bus services in the Dublin metropolitan area, along with Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford to low/zero emission bus fleet.

As they incorporate a fully battery-electric powertrain, the buses will operate with zero tailpipe-emissions, which will contribute to a substantial improvement in air quality in the cities and towns in which they are deployed.

This initial order for 120 buses represents  an investment of some €80.4m.

Of the 120 buses currently on order, 100 are destined for use by Dublin Bus on PSO bus services within the Dublin Metropolitan Area and 20 are destined for use by Bus Éireann for use in the Limerick Metropolitan Area. Buses from future orders may also be used to operate PSO bus services in other parts of Ireland, including the metropolitan areas of Cork, Galway and Waterford.

Commissioning and training activities will get under way later this year, as will work on installing the necessary charging infrastructure. The first buses are expected to enter passenger service in 2023.

The buses will be outshopped in the green, white and yellow Transport For Ireland (TFI) livery which is in the course of being applied to all buses and coaches in the PSO fleet.

Passenger facilities onboard include:

  • seating for up to 65 passengers;
  • a permanent wheelchair space;
  • a dedicated area for the accommodation of a pram, pushchair or buggy;
  • prominent and distinctive priority seating;
  • high-definition real-time passenger information displays;
  • USB charging sockets; and
  • complimentary Wi-Fi.

Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan said:

“We know that decarbonising transport is imperative, as part of our effort to tackle climate change. Public transport because it is shared mobility is already a far more sustainable and economical way of getting around, particularly compared to a private car that runs on fossil fuel, and the battery-electric buses that we are now ordering, will accelerate the transition to a zero-emission fleet.

“Going electric will reduce the carbon footprint of our public transport fleet, and will help us reach our long-term climate goals, as outlined in the Climate Action Plan. These new electric buses will also help reduce air pollution, improve public health and improve access to public transport for people of all abilities.

“I welcome today’s announcement and look forward to seeing cleaner and greener buses in operation in our cities”

Chief Executive Officer of the National Transport Authority, Anne Graham said:

“The transition to a zero-emission bus fleet is a central component of our BusConnects project, and the procurement of these battery-electric buses represents a key milestone in that process.

“There is no doubt that people are looking to us to provide better, more sustainable transport alternatives in all areas, and it is incumbent on us as an Authority to respond to that demand in a positive way. In so doing, we will reduce the need for personal vehicles, making the quality of the air we breathe healthier for everyone.

“When it comes to taking climate action, we in the NTA want to play our part and we want to lead by example. We are doing that by transitioning our public transport fleet away from fossil fuel to zero emission technologies and as you see today we are making real progress. This process is already under way, and when complete in 2035 will result public transport emissions being massively reduced.”

Neil Collins, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said: “We are extremely proud of this historic deal, which is hugely significant for Ireland’s decarbonisation ambitions and for us here at Wrightbus.

“This deal further cements the reputation we have built in the zero-emission sector, and follows hot on the heels of historic deals in Australia and Germany. This shows our ambition to be at the forefront of the zero emission drive in cities, towns and rural areas  across the world.”