Fully electric bus fleet in Athlone by end of 2022

Athlone's bus fleet is set to be fully electric by the end of 2022, according to the government's Climate Action Plan which was published last Thursday.

The electric fleet makes up one of the plan's 2022 deliverables, which has an overall aim of achieving a 51% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.

The plan, which will be updated annually, outlines the steps required to enable a transformation in how we travel over the next nine years as we move towards a fully decarbonised transport sector.

A framework agreement was signed in July of this year between the National Transport Authority and Alexander Dennis Limited for the delivery of 200 zero emission battery-electric buses. An initial order of 45 buses for Athlone and the Dublin Metropolitan Area commencing in 2022 was also agreed.

A spokesperson for the National Transport Authority said this week that the design of "eleven battery-electric single-deck buses destined for Athlone town services is well advanced and assembly of the chassis of the first bus has commenced."

"Procurement of the requisite bus charging equipment and upgrading of the electrical infrastructure at Athlone Depot is also being progressed.

"All activities are on target to facilitate the entry into service of the buses by Q4 2022."

The Eniro200EV bus will be a dual variant which has 27 seats and capacity for more than 75 passengers.

The interior of the bus has been configured to maximise passenger flow and accessibility, and will incorporate both a wheelchair space and a dedicated area for the accommodation of at least one unfolded pram/pushchairs/buggy.

Other aspects of the transport chapter of the Climate Action Plan include the creation of 165 new electric buses for cities, 105 more buses for regional and local services, and increased funding for the transition to electric vehicles including €60m in grants.

By the end of the decade, the government also aims to have 945,000 electric vehicles and 1,500 electric buses on the roads, as well as 500,000 additional daily walking, cycling and public transport journeys.

Speaking about the plan, Minister Eamon Ryan said: "This plan will transform how we travel, cutting emissions, and connecting our communities via better public transport both in urban and rural areas. By electrifying our transport system, we will move away from fossil fuels and also enjoy cleaner air.

"I am especially pleased that the wider public sector will lead the way by mandating that all new vehicles from the end of 2022 be electric where possible.”