THE newest fully-electric bus network in the UK has been launched in Dunfermline.

The system is part of a more than £14 million investment in public transport in East Scotland by Stagecoach.

It involves 11 new zero-emission buses which will operate on city centre circular routes 1, 2, 3 and 5.

Douglas Robertson, Managing Director for Stagecoach East Scotland, said: "The launch of our fully-electric city bus network in Dunfermline is a proud moment for us.

Dunfermline Press: One of the new vehicles which is now in service on routes around Dunfermline City.One of the new vehicles which is now in service on routes around Dunfermline City. (Image: Stagecoach)

"These fantastic new vehicles are further proof of our commitment to operating a zero-emission bus fleet by 2035, and ensure cleaner air for our city."

There are now ten new BYD ADL Enviro200EV zero-emission buses and one BYD ADL Enviro400EV double deck vehicle are now operating on all city centre routes.

The vehicles, which have no engine noise or vibration, can run from morning to evening on a single daily charge and feature USB charging points at each seat as well as interior LED lights and contactless payment facilities.

Investment has been supported by the Scottish Government’s Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB) and charging infrastructure was successfully installed at the Dunfermline depot ahead

of the launch.

Stagecoach already use 100 per cent renewable electricity across the business.

Marie Connell, National Account Manager at Alexander Dennis, said: "We are delighted to continue to support Stagecoach as it rolls out another full-electric city bus network in Scotland using our zero-emission buses.

"Customers will love their smooth acceleration, air conditioning and comfortable Alexander Dennis SmartSeats, while drivers will benefit from a familiar vehicle.

"Thanks to the Scottish Government’s support through ScotZEB, these buses have helped to underpin skilled jobs and apprenticeships in the UK bus manufacturing industry."

Stagecoach is on target for a zero emission UK bus fleet by 2035 and has introduced new electric buses across many parts of the country, including one of Europe’s biggest investment in e-buses in Manchester.

A further 159 new electric buses will be introduced in 2023, including those in Dunfermline, bringing the total to 343.