The Scottish Government has awarded £45m through the third Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB3). This investment will bring over 330 zero emission vehicles to Scotland’s operators, alongside the installation of charging infrastructure.
Additionally, the Scottish Government is continuing to examine options for a regulatory approach through the UK Bus Services Act 2025. This would apply from a date no earlier than 2030, to further support the phased uptake of zero emission buses on local services. This would contribute significantly to reducing the emissions from heavy duty vehicles in Scotland and encourage more passengers to choose bus as a sustainable public transport option.
These awards mark the conclusion of funding from the Scottish Government to support large operators to make the transition to zero emission vehicles. This latest investment builds on the success of previous rounds of similar schemes. Across ScotZEB and the Scottish Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme (SULEBS), the Scottish Government has already supported the deployment of around 800 buses and associated charging infrastructure through £154 million of capital funding. In doing so, it has reduced transport emissions and supported a just transition to a net zero transport system – building on the benefits of Scotland’s investment in secure, renewable sources of electricity.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:
“This final investment of £45 million from the Scottish Government through ScotZEB3 signals our commitment to a zero emission future for Scotland’s bus sector.
“Since 2020, we have invested over £154 million in zero emission buses and infrastructure. This additional £45 million will support the ambition and leadership of operators that seek to decarbonise their operations as quickly as possible. It also helps ensure that the bus sector can access the benefits of Scotland’s investment in secure, renewable sources of electricity.
“With every £1 of public funding leveraging over £2.50 of private investment, ScotZEB3 has demonstrated that government and industry can work together to deliver transformative climate action.
“The programme is not only reducing emissions – it’s supporting jobs and our economy, connecting communities across Scotland and improving the experience for passengers across the country.”
(Picture: Alexander Dennis)
