McGill’s, Scotland’s largest independent bus operator, has confirmed an order for 26 Alexander Dennis Enviro200 single deck buses as part of its continued investment in its modern fleet. They will be built to Low Emission Bus standards with Euro 6 engines and ADL’s SmartPack efficient diesel technology, and will be delivered by the end of March 2019.
The order includes 11 Enviro200 in 10.4-meter length as well as 15 to a length of 11.5-meter. The longer vehicles will have high-backed seats with the McGill’s logo embroidered into the headrest, and will be fitted with USB charging ports to keep passengers’ mobile devices powered.
All 26 buses will feature ADL’s award-winning SmartPack technology, accrediting them as Low Emission Buses as defined by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership. Not only will the buses meet the demanding Euro 6 emissions standard, but their real emissions will be significantly lower still thanks to engine stop/start technology and the smart management of alternator and compressor, which are programmed to recharge from surplus energy when the engine is coasting.
McGill’s will use the new buses across its Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and Glasgow networks. They will be fully compliant with the requirements of Glasgow’s upcoming Low Emission Zone, underlining the operator’s commitment to work in partnership with Glasgow City Council to make travel more sustainable.
Ralph Roberts, managing director of McGill’s, said: “When it came to this year’s bus investment, the low operating cost and high reliability of the ADL product made it an easy decision to choose the Enviro 200 product. Our Inverclyde and Renfrewshire routes will benefit from this £4.8m of investment and not only give our current customers an enhanced travel experience but hopefully tempt non-bus users to give the bus a try.”
ADL Chief Executive Colin Robertson said: “This deal will not only deliver benefits to passengers and residents across McGill’s operating areas in Renfrewshire and the West of Scotland, but it also helps us to retain skills and value in the Scottish economy. We champion a collaborative approach of working closely with our customers to support their requirements and we are delighted to continue our relationship with McGill’s.”