Go-Ahead Secures First Electric Vehicle Order with Volvo Buses

London, United Kingdom, 19 February 2025: London's biggest bus service provider, Go-Ahead, has placed the first electric vehicle order from Volvo Buses. Later this year, the company will introduce 25 Volvo BZL Electric single-deck buses to its fleet, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between the manufacturer and operator.

According to Transport for London (TfL) requirements, the new buses will be set up and painted in the recognisable red that has been connected to London buses since the 1930s. Each MCV-bodied vehicle will feature four traction batteries, which can store up to 376kWh of energy. Regenerative braking technology will help recharge the batteries during operation, and primary charging will take place at the depot overnight using CCS 2 cables and a bank of 150kW DC chargers.

Matt Carney, CEO of Go-Ahead Bus, in an official press release by Volvo Buses stated, "Volvo Buses have been a staple of the Go-Ahead fleet in London for decades, and we’re excited to be introducing our first BZL Electrics into the capital. They’ll replace a mixture of older diesel and hybrid assets in our fleet, helping to further improve the sustainability of our operation.”  He further added, "Placing this order with Volvo directly supports our customer-first culture, known internally as the ‘Go-Ahead Way’. Through this, we pride ourselves in selecting superior vehicles and collaborating with trusted partners to innovate and invest in the services we deliver."

In the press release, Domenico Bondi, Managing Director of Volvo Bus UK & Ireland, comments, "Securing our first Volvo BZL Electric order from Go-Ahead is another significant vote of confidence in our zero tailpipe emission range and the huge investment we’ve made in the aftersales support here in the UK to support them."

Traditionally known for its longer buses, Volvo Buses’ BZL Electric range offers single-deck options between 9m and 12.9m, providing greater flexibility for fleet operators. The new buses will be manufactured at Volvo Buses' chassis plant in Borås, Sweden, which is certified as a zero-waste-to-landfill site and runs entirely on renewable energy. A dedicated & specialised Bus Field Service team within the local dealer Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East will assist the new vehicles once they are delivered and put into service in London. 

With Volvo's proven expertise in electrification and Go-Ahead’s dedication to reducing carbon footprints, this partnership not only benefits commuters but also sets a strong precedent for the future of urban transportation.