One Third Hybrid

from 1 October.

Reading Buses now has the highest proportion of electric hybrid double deck buses in its fleet in the UK.

Reading Buses will have a total of 31 electric hybrid double deckers.  This means that one-third of the double-decker fleet will be electric hybrid powered which we believe is the highest proportion in the country.

We are re-launching our ‘purple 17’ bus route – bringing electric power back to the town’s Oxford Road and Wokingham Road for the first time since trolleybuses were withdrawn in 1968. Purple 17 runs between Tilehurst and Wokingham Road and is the town’s busiest bus service.

Thirteen vivid purple hybrid double deck buses will operate the 17 route from Saturday October 1.  This means that Reading Buses now has three routes all with hybrid buses – seven on the Yellow 26, nine on the Claret 20, 20a and 21 into the University of Reading every 7-8 minutes; and two buses in the Company’s silver generic livery as back-up.

The hybrid has a diesel engine, but it is the electric motor that drives the bus.  It generates one-third less carbon raising its green credentials and uses at least 22.5% less fuel for a greater economic performance.

We are really proud to have 31 all-British buses which are at the forefront of technology and the purple 17 route joins an increasing number of our routes providing free wi-fi which appeals to the younger generation.

Audio announcements of bus stops are also designed to be clear and are helpful for everybody.  For travellers unfamiliar with the route, these announcements will make a big difference.

Anthony Smith of Passenger Focus said "the purple electric hybrids reflected the image of modern bus travel which is what passengers want to see.

“Electric is the future and clearly what we are seeing in Reading is very exciting.  The bus is becoming a better choice for a lot more people and I suspect Reading compares well on cost, convenience and culture.

“Reading is setting the pace in making buses look very good.  With the right image people will choose the bus which is what they are doing in Reading in greater numbers,” he added.