The aim of ScotZEB is to encourage significant change in the bus market in favour of zero-emission technologies, creating sustainable and inclusive growth. By supporting the swift transition to zero emission vehicles and infrastructure, the fund aims to help achieve targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to the delivery of Low Emission Zones, encourage inward investment and growth in the supply chain of zero carbon vehicle and energy solutions in Scotland, with associated employment, economic and social benefits.

Successful proposals for 137 zero-emission buses were made with ADL as the intended supplier and the company will now work with the awardees to finalise contracts for these electric buses, which will be built by ADL in Falkirk. They will help to underpin skilled jobs as well as the company’s apprenticeship and graduate programmes. ADL is also working to upskill its team in green technology and continues to invest in the future of its team members through professional development opportunities.

ScotZEB follows two rounds of funding under the predecessor Scottish Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme in September 2020 and March 2021, which enabled 207 electric buses to be ordered from ADL by bus operators.

ADL President & Managing Director Paul Davies commented: “The Scottish Government continues to lead by example with its support for the bus industry, and the ScotZEB challenge fund supports our collaborative business model of working in close partnership with operators, infrastructure partners and stakeholders. We are pleased that bids for 137 of our zero emission buses have been successful in this phase. These zero emission buses will be built in Falkirk and therefore ensure this Scottish Government investment is made domestically, allowing the benefits to be felt by our team members and across our communities. We very much look forward to working with the successful operators to finalise terms and get our teams working on these buses.”