Reading Buses has launched a new fleet of fully battery-electric, zero-emission buses as part of its ongoing efforts to modernise services and reduce environmental impact. The first of these electric vehicles entered service on 6 February 2026, marking a significant milestone in the company’s 125-year history and reflecting its long-term commitment to cleaner transport.
The initial rollout comprises 24 electric buses, built by British manufacturer Alexander Dennis and supported by charging infrastructure supplied by Zenobe. These buses operate on two of Reading’s busiest routes: the purple 17 between Tilehurst, central Reading and Wokingham Road, and the claret 21 linking central Reading with the University of Reading and Lower Earley. There are also plans for six additional electric buses to be added on the yellow 26 route later in 2026.
These new vehicles replace older diesel-powered buses on a one-for-one basis and are designed to run within the existing 24-hour operations without disruption. They are zero-emission at the point of use, helping to cut carbon dioxide emissions in the town and improve local air quality.
The buses are equipped with high-quality interior features to enhance the passenger experience. These include automatic air conditioning and heating via heat pumps, audio-visual next-stop announcements, USB-A and USB-C charging points, wireless phone charging, free Wi-Fi, mood lighting and comfortable seating. Accessibility is improved with additional wheelchair and buggy spaces, glazed staircases with roof lights, and CCTV displays showing available seating on the upper deck.
Reading Buses’ electric fleet rollout has been supported by funding from the UK Department for Transport’s ZEBRA (Zero Emission Buses for Regional Areas) programme, covering the majority of the additional vehicle and infrastructure costs. Alongside this electrification, the company continues to operate a large number of low-emission bio-methane buses, meaning that over 60% of its fleet is now either low or zero emission.
