Welcome to Yorkshire
News • August 10th, 2026
|Public transport in Hull has just taken a big leap forward with the launch of a new fleet of electric buses, marking the start of a quieter and more environmentally friendly way to travel around the city. This exciting development, announced on 10th August 2026, is part of an effort to improve comfort, reliability, safety, and reduce pollution in the area.
New Fleet of Electric Buses
Stagecoach East Midlands has introduced 42 brand-new electric buses to Hull, with plans to increase this number to 55 in the coming year. These buses promise a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers compared to traditional diesel buses. One of the key benefits of electric buses is that they require less maintenance. They only need servicing every six weeks, while diesel buses require attention every four weeks. This means they are more reliable and can spend more time on the roads serving the community.
Reducing Noise Pollution
Another significant advantage of these electric buses is their impact on noise pollution. They operate at a sound level of just 50 decibels, which is comparable to a normal conversation. In contrast, diesel buses typically emit around 72 decibels. This reduction in noise is expected to create a more peaceful environment for residents and commuters alike.
Advanced Features for Safety
The new electric buses come equipped with a range of modern features designed to enhance safety and visibility. These include:
Electric parking brakes - These help keep the bus securely in place when parked.
Hill start assist - This feature prevents the bus from rolling backward when starting on an incline.
Electric ‘smart’ mirrors - These improve visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
Official Launch Event
The launch of the electric buses took place at the MKM Stadium, attended by important figures from Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council, as well as other key representatives. This investment represents the largest order of buses in Hull in the last 125 years, underlining the commitment to improving public transport in the city.
Service Expansion Plans
Starting from the launch date, electric buses will operate on Services 3, 5, and 12, with plans to expand to Services 7, 8, 13, 14, and 15 in the future. The operator aims to have 55 electric buses in its fleet within the next 12 months. To support this initiative, 56 charging points have been installed at the Foster Street depot, ensuring the buses can be charged and ready for service.
Investment in Clean Transport
This significant change comes as part of a joint £28 million investment from Stagecoach, Hull City Council, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, and the Department for Transport. The goal is to deliver new electric buses and the infrastructure necessary to support them. This investment is a crucial step towards cleaner air and a more sustainable future for public transport in Hull.
What Local Leaders Are Saying
Matt Cranwell, the Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, expressed pride in introducing these new vehicles to the community:
“We are so proud to be bringing these wonderful new vehicles to our loyal customers in Hull. Investments like this aim to offer a more reliable and more comfortable service, as well as cleaner air for everyone.”
Meanwhile, Councillor Mark Ieronimo, who is the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transport and Infrastructure at Hull City Council, highlighted the importance of this investment for the city’s future:
“Stagecoach’s new electric buses are a fantastic step forward for Hull. They’re cleaner, quieter and more reliable, and they will make everyday journeys easier for thousands of people across our city.”
Great British Summer Savings Scheme
The launch of the electric buses comes at a perfect time, as August offers a special incentive for young travellers. Children under 16 can travel for free on local buses under the government’s Great British Summer Savings Scheme. Additionally, adult single fares are capped at just £3, making public transport even more accessible for everyone in Hull.
