Stagecoach takes first steps towards greener transport in North Devon

Bus operator Stagecoach South West, which operates services across North Devon, has officially begun its journey towards a net-zero future with the introduction of electric buses.

The company is taking the first step with the installation of charging infrastructure at its Exeter depot, as it prepares to bring the first of its electric buses into the South West later this summer.

While the initial rollout will start in Exeter, Stagecoach has announced that electric buses will soon be introduced across Torbay and North Devon, with the full fleet expected to be operational by early 2026.

Once introduced into the region, the new electric buses will provide passengers with a quieter, smoother, and more comfortable journey, with the latest accessibility features and a much-needed boost to the region’s public transport network.

The project, backed by a £15 million investment from Stagecoach South West and support from Devon County Council, is part of the government’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) funding programme. 

The infrastructure being installed at Exeter’s Matford Park and Ride depot will also serve the public, with charging points available when not in use by Stagecoach buses, creating a new Community Charging Hub featuring high-speed technology.

Peter Knight, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said: “This is an exciting moment for Stagecoach in the South West. The start of this project marks the beginning of a significant decrease in carbon emissions across the region. It will not only improve air quality and public health but also contribute to Exeter’s broader environmental goals, including its 2030 net-zero target.”

He added: “This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of our local authority partners, Devon County Council and Torbay Council, who share our vision of creating a greener, thriving bus service. We’re confident this project will help transform public transport in the region and make a positive impact on the local community.”

Stagecoach estimates that each new electric bus could take 20 to 40 cars off the road, reducing CO2 emissions by around 40 tonnes per year. 

With 20 electric buses being introduced across the region, Stagecoach says this could save up to 12,000 tonnes of CO2 over the buses’ 15-year lifespan.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Deputy Leader of Devon County Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, welcomed the move, saying: “I’m thrilled that work is underway to support Devon’s new fleet of electric buses. Decarbonising public transport is crucial to meeting our climate targets and tackling the climate emergency. Given that transportation is responsible for a significant portion of carbon emissions in Devon, these buses represent a major step forward in creating a more sustainable future for the county.”