Swindon’s Bus Company was joined by MP Robert Buckland and borough council leaders for a potential glimpse into the future of sustainable transport in the region.

The bus company – which operates services across the area – had a BYD ADL Enviro200 EV electric bus on display at its depot in Barnfield Road, and there was even a chance to take the futuristic vehicle for a spin across the town.

“We were pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate this British-built electric bus, and are excited by the potential it offers us in terms of improving air quality here,” said Swindon’s Bus Company managing director Andrew Wickham.

“Swindon’s Bus Company has been working with Swindon Borough Council on a bid for the Department for Transport’s Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) scheme – which could see 57 new electric buses arrive in the town.

“I’m delighted that the bid has progressed to the next stage of the process. Buses are an excellent solution for improving air quality and reducing congestion, because they give people the option to leave their cars at home and use sustainable transport instead.

“Having this electric bus available for Robert Buckland MP, Justin Tomlinson MP and councillors from the local authority to see and experience, has been an excellent opportunity to demonstrate all that these pioneering vehicles have to offer.”

Among those joining Mr Wickham and Mr Buckland earlier this week were Swindon Borough Council leader Coun David Renard and his deputy, the cabinet member for strategic infrastructure, transport and planning, Coun Gary Sumner.

“This is an excellent time, as we emerge from the pandemic restrictions, to look at new ways to help lower emissions across the region,” added Mr Wickham.

“Buses – especially electric buses – are the perfect solution for this, and they have the potential to significantly improve air quality in our towns and cities.

“The response we received this week from our guests was extremely encouraging, and we’re looking forward to working in partnership to help bring even more sustainable transport to the town in the not too distant future.”