BexleyBromleyCroydonNews

Futuristic, all-electric ‘tram-buses’ to launch within weeks

By Noah Vickers, Local Democracy Reporter

Futuristic, all-electric ‘tram-buses’ will enter service in South-east London within a matter of weeks, Sadiq Khan has said.

Built by Spanish firm Irizar, the new buses – called ieTrams – will operate on route 358, linking Orpington with Crystal Palace.

With a sleek look resembling a tram, the buses have large windows and covered wheels, to better protect pedestrians and cyclists from being caught and dragged underneath them.

The vehicles were originally meant to be on the streets last year but the date has been repeatedly pushed back. The mayor has now said they will launch later this summer.

Responding to a written question from Thomas Turrell, the Tory assembly member for Bexley and Bromley, Mr Khan’s office said: “The all-electric Route 358 ieTram buses are expected to start operating in summer 2024.

“They will be Transport for London’s (TfL) first end to end ‘Opportunity Charging’ trial, and it is important to get the hardware installed properly before the buses are introduced.”

The new buses will be able to recharge in less than 10 minutes and will have smaller batteries, reducing the weight being driven each day.

Pictured top: An image of the new ie Tram bus, which will soon operate on Route 358 (Picture: Go-Ahead/Mark Lyons)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.