Local company Optare are to provide the electric buses for York announced by the Coalition Government on Monday.
LibDem Minister Norman Baker (right) at the launch of the 34 seat Optare electric bus
The buses are understood to be a larger version of those used in “Poundbury” in Dorset – the inspiration for the new Derwenthorpe village in York.
The 11 metre Versa EVs have a seating capacity of 34, which with standees results in a total carrying capacity of over 50.
De Courcey Travel are using the Versa EVs on the well patronised 400 vehicle Coventry South Park and Ride scheme with journeys into the city centre at 12 minute intervals at peak times.
The buses have a range of up to 100 miles. Fast charging points can recharge the batteries in around 2 hours.
The buses cost over £200,000 each. The government pays up to 50% of the cost of each.