First Manchester begin trial of fully electric bus in Oldham

First Manchester drivers are pictured with a Mellor Sigma 10 bus

First Manchester has begun the trial of a fully electric bus on the Oldham network.

It will be the first time its customers have been able to travel on a zero emission bus, and is part of planning and investigation by the operator to prepare for the full electrification of its Wallshaw Street depot in the future.

And First Manchester has chosen to partner with a local manufacturer for the demonstration bus.

Rochdale-based Mellor is providing its Sigma 10 single-decker model which is capable of carrying 70 passengers.

The trial will operate from 9:40-15:40 on the 425 Oldham-Holts and 57 Oldham-Rushcroft services, for two weeks.

Rob Hughes, Operations Director of First Manchester, said: “This is an important step in our learning and use of all-electric buses as we prepare for the transition of our fleet here in Oldham away from diesel vehicles.

“The trial will give us valuable insight into daily running, operational performance and charging requirements of electric buses.

"We will also be gaining feedback from customers on their experience of zero emission travel and its benefits including improved air quality and quieter streets that will come with the introduction of electric buses to our fleet.”

Jane Dransfield of Mellor said: “It’s a pleasure to be working with First Manchester to provide Oldham with its first zero-emissions bus.

"As a local bus builder, we’re showcasing to passengers that the north west is a home of innovation and that we’re continuing the legacy of vehicle manufacturing in the area.

“We’re excited to see First’s customers enjoying many zero emissions miles onboard our Sigma 10 and wish the team well with their maiden electric vehicle trial.”

The bus has a range of between 175-210 miles and so will be capable of operating on the Oldham routes all day from a single overnight charge.

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