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Sustainable buses launched in Sunderland

New green hybrid-engine buses will be launched today in Sunderland as part of the new Sunderland Connect route which aims to help the city reduce its carbon footprint.

The new buses, which will link the city’s major attractions and amenities, will help to deliver a number of smart and sustainable objectives of the Sunderland Economic Masterplan.

Councilor James Blackburn, Sunderland City Council Portfolio Holder for an Attractive and Inclusive City, will launch the vehicles this afternoon.

Commenting on the introduction of the buses, Cllr Blackburn said: “ The benefits of using hybrid vehicles as opposed to conventional diesel include a lower fuel consumption, which makes the bus a cleaner service and minimizes carbon dioxide and particle emissions.

“We are delighted to work in partnership with Nexus and Sunderland University to launch the new buses.”

The route has been running for the past month, and has already achieved great success, with passenger numbers rising to almost 6,000 per week.

Bernard Garner, director general of Nexus said: “Sunderland Connect has proved popular from the word go and is already well-established as the best way to get across and around the city centre.

“With the launch of new hybrid vehicles passengers can also be reassured they are making a greener journey, as well as a quick and convenient one.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .