Second Electric Bus Trial To Begin In Guernsey

CT Plus is testing a new zero-emissions bus, in the latest trial to find one that suits Guernsey's roads.

UPDATE: This has been postponed until next Wednesday (9 August).

The bus company has partnered with Mellor Bus to trial its 'Sigma 8' model.

The bus is 2.35 metres wide and 8.7 metres long, with a capacity of up to 60 passengers. Powered by CATL 210 kWh batteries, it can travel over 160 miles on a single charge, and be fully charged in just under three hours.

The 'state-of-the-art' vehicle will be used on local services for the next two weeks so data can be collected on energy consumption, charging requirements, and manoeuvrability on the island's bus routes.

Beforehand, islanders are invited to take a look at the bus, which will be on display tomorrow (3 August) at the Town Terminus A Stand in front of Picquet House from 10am to 2pm.

Richard Matthews from Mellor says it can 'navigate the narrow or constricted routes of the Channel Islands with ease'.

“We believe our Sigma range of buses have huge potential to play a significant part in the island’s efforts to improve its public transportation.

These trials are a significant moment for Mellor as we look to expand our bus offering in the Channel Islands.”

CT Plus hopes this display will encourage more people to become full-time and part-time drivers.

Director Kevin Hart says he is excited about the trials:

“The Mellor Sigma range are great little buses and we can’t wait to trial the bus on the network and share the results of the trial with the States of Guernsey.

We invite the community of Guernsey to get on board and take a look at the zero-emission bus. We will then be using the bus in service over the following few weeks to get a true picture of the compatibility with the Island’s roads.”

This is the second electric bus trial in Guernsey this year, with CT Plus testing the Chinese-built Yutong E9 in January.