Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has welcomed its first Wrightbus StreetDeck Electroliner electric double-decker buses, which are expected to begin passenger service later this year on the Lilac Line 27 to Carlton. The significant investment of £4.5m towards these new vehicles has been provided by the Mayor of the East Midlands and the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).
Mayor Claire Ward stated her commitment to enhancing public transport, highlighting that the new electric buses will offer passengers a quieter, smoother, and more comfortable journey. Key features include air conditioning, charging ports, and improved accessibility, aiming to make bus travel a more attractive option.
NCT will host a special launch event at Sneinton Market Square, Nottingham, on Wednesday 14 October 2026, between 10am and 3pm. The public is invited to experience the new buses firsthand and learn about their advanced features and technology.
A total of six zero-emission Streetdeck Electroliner Gen 2.0 buses have been supplied by Wrightbus, the UK's only remaining British-owned bus manufacturer and a leading zero-emission bus producer. These buses are equipped with features such as full air conditioning, USB charging points, comfortable seating, and two wheelchair bays, designed to create a welcoming environment, including for neurodivergent passengers. With a range of up to 275 miles and fast charging capabilities, they are designed to meet daily operational demands.
This introduction marks a significant step in NCT’s ongoing electric bus project, following the successful rollout of its 62 electric single-decker buses. The arrival of the StreetDeck Electroliners is a key milestone in NCT's strategy to electrify its double-decker fleet. VEV, the energy partner, has completed the necessary infrastructure works at NCT’s Parliament Street Garage for overnight charging.
Further electric double-deckers are anticipated before Christmas, supported by an additional £6.3m funding boost from EMCCA. This will increase NCT’s zero-emission electric fleet to 93 vehicles, with approximately one-third of the total fleet operating as fully electric.
David Astill, NCT managing director, expressed pride in launching the new buses, funded in partnership with EMCCA and Mayor Claire Ward. He noted that these vehicles represent a significant upgrade in fleet specification, including the first-ever air conditioning on their double-decker fleet. He encouraged customers to visit Sneinton Market Place for an early look before they enter service on Carlton Road.
Christian Reynolds, Wrightbus managing director, commented on the importance of this milestone for Nottingham's transition to zero-emission public transport, celebrating Wrightbus's 80th anniversary. He anticipates the buses becoming a familiar sight, supporting NCT's goal of cleaner, more comfortable journeys and the city's sustainable transport ambitions.
