First electric bus in B&NES on route

The inaugural permanent electric bus service in Bath and North East Somerset launched this week, ensuring a greener link between some of the city’s busiest locations.

The launch of the electric bus, which will run the number 20 route, will continue to provide a vital link between the city centre, University of Bath and Royal United Hospital (RUH), whilst enhancing environmentally friendly travel options for residents and visitors.

Operated by community-interest company The Big Lemon, the 20 route is subsidised by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s (B&NES) Transport Bus Levy and offers an hourly service between Wedgwood Road in Twerton and the Sports Training Village at University of Bath.

Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy council leader and cabinet member for climate emergency and sustainable travel, said: "The introduction of B&NES's first electric bus on the number 20 route represents a significant step forward in our efforts to promote sustainability. This service will benefit residents, students, tourists and hospital visitors by providing a greener transportation option."

Georgia-Rose Gleeson, Sustainability Officer at Royal United Hospital Bath, said: “We very much welcome the introduction of an electric powered bus on the important 20 bus route between the RUH, the City and the University. This new addition to the network will help progress our sustainable travel plan for the benefit of the people we care for, our staff and our community.”

Tom Druitt, CEO at The Big Lemon, said: "When The Big Lemon launched services in Bath in 2022 we made a commitment to run these services with zero-emission electric vehicles in the future and we're excited that just 18 months in we are now launching Bath's first dedicated zero-emissions electric bus service. It's great that this launch is taking place at the Royal United Hospital as the hospital is one of the major destinations on our route 20; and to launch the new vehicles at a climate change event is very fitting as this is one of the main reasons The Big Lemon exists.”