The first of West Yorkshire’s new fully electric buses have rolled off the production line.
Unveiled in a video shared on social media by West Yorkshire mayor Tracy Brabin, the vehicles are part of the region’s new Weaver Network and are set to begin service in 2027.
The video, which gave viewers a first look inside the buses, featured the message: "Introducing the all-new Weaver Network buses.
"Coming off the production line now, ready to hit West Yorkshire’s streets from 2027."
The buses are being manufactured by Wrightbus, a UK-based company that secured the contract in May to produce almost 200 electric vehicles following a competitive process.
They will form the first fleet of Combined Authority-owned buses for the new franchising model and will be leased to operators.
Mayor Tracy Brabin, who visited the Wrightbus production line, said: "I can’t wait to see these new buses on our streets as part of a fully integrated transport network under the Weaver Network, providing a better-connected West Yorkshire that works for all."
(Image: WYCA)
Inside the new Weaver Network fleet
The video highlighted several key features of the new buses, stating: "The new buses are fully electric, making them greener and quieter.
"With the distinctive Weaver network green pattern tiles on the outside, the inside was designed with the help of local passengers."
Each bus will include air conditioning, two wheelchair spaces, and flexible areas for pushchairs or luggage.
The seating features a moquette made by Huddersfield manufacturer Camira Fabrics.
Passengers will also have access to USB charging points.
The public helped shape the bus designs during a consultation earlier this year.
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(Image: WYCA)
Christian Reynolds, managing director of Wrightbus, said: "These buses will play an important role in the future of public transport across West Yorkshire.
"It’s particularly pleasing to see Yorkshire businesses such as Camira Fabrics playing a part in the project.
"We’re working closely with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to make sure they deliver the quality, comfort and accessibility passengers expect."
(Image: Newsquest)
When they will arrive in Bradford
The new buses will be rolled out across West Yorkshire over the coming years, with Bradford expected to get them by about 2028.
Richard Matthews, sales director at Mellor, said: "Being a Yorkshireman myself, there’s something particularly special about seeing 33 Mellor buses being delivered to communities across West Yorkshire.
"It’s also a significant order for our team and a great example of British-built buses being designed around the specific needs of the services and communities they will support."
The £100m contract covers 193 single- and double-decker buses, which will be introduced in stages between spring 2027 and late 2028.
The buses will use high-tech batteries designed to improve performance compared with previous electric bus models.
Under the franchising model, the Combined Authority will set routes, timetables and fares, with fare revenue reinvested in improving services.