The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced a £37.8 million investment to deliver 319 new zero emission buses across England by spring 2027.
The funding, allocated to 12 local authorities following successful bids to expand their zero emission fleets, aims to provide passengers with "greener, smoother and quieter bus journeys," according to government officials.
Each pound of government funding is expected to attract at least £3 of private investment. Notable allocations include nearly £20 million to the West of England Combined Authority for 160 buses, £3.9 million to Hull City Council for 42 vehicles, and £2.6 million to Nottinghamshire County Council for 42 electric buses.
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said: "I'm thrilled to announce this £38 million investment, which will deliver 319 new zero emission buses to communities across England by 2027. This funding will not only make bus travel cleaner, greener and more comfortable, but it will deliver on our Plan for Change, creating jobs, supporting local economies and accelerating our journey towards a zero-emission future."
In Bristol, the funding will expand zero emission services across 22 routes connecting passengers to hospitals and universities.
The announcement follows changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, which increased flexibility until 2030 and extended hybrid vehicle sales until 2035, aimed at supporting UK electric vehicle manufacturers.
This latest funding complements the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area 2 programme, which previously funded 995 zero emission buses. Officials noted that 60% of buses funded by previous ZEBRA investments were procured from domestic firms.
Matt Cranwell, Stagecoach East Midlands Managing Director, welcomed the investment: "This new government funding, supported by significant investment by bus operators, will play a key role in Stagecoach's transition to green bus fleets, helping us to meet our goal of having a zero emission UK bus fleet nationally, by 2035."
The forthcoming Bus Services Bill is expected to include measures to end the use of new diesel and petrol buses across England.