Torbay set for zero-emission future as Stagecoach debuts electric bus

Torbay got its first glimpse of a greener future this week as Stagecoach South West unveiled its brand-new electric double-decker bus at the Baton of Hope event.

The showcase marks the first time one of Stagecoach’s new electric buses has appeared in Torbay.

It comes ahead of the town becoming home to the operator’s first fully electric depot in November 2025.

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The £29.3 million project will deliver 27 charging points capable of powering up to 55 buses, along with a new fleet of zero-emission double-deckers.

Stagecoach is funding 75 per cent of the investment, with the remaining 25 per cent coming from the Department for Transport.

Peter Knight, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said: “We’re proud to support the Baton of Hope event and to bring along one of our new electric double-decker buses for the very first time in Torbay. This is just the beginning of a major transformation in how we deliver bus services here. By next year, Torbay will host our first fully electric depot, helping to cut emissions, improve air quality, and provide passengers with quieter, smoother journeys.”

Councillor Nick Bye, Torbay’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, was among the baton bearers at the event.

He said: “It’s great that Torbay is getting this investment in sustainable transport and I’m so pleased that one of the buses made its debut yesterday at the Baton of Hope event.

“This important event has brought the whole Torbay community together to raise awareness of suicide and mental health, and Stagecoach has played its part by offering the use of one of their buses for the baton bearers taking part.

“It’s great that Stagecoach have pulled out all the stops to show residents one of these brand new buses for the first time. It’s so positive that Torbay is the first place outside a major city with a 100% electric bus fleet.”

Earlier this year, the government announced nearly £38 million to provide 319 new zero-emission buses across England by spring 2027.

The move forms part of the UK’s wider push to increase the number of zero-emission buses and reduce emissions from public transport.

In the Torbay area, the new depot and electric buses will allow Stagecoach to operate its first entirely zero-emission fleet outside a major city.