14 new electric buses begin service in Northumberland

By Natalie Hughes 16/06/2026 2 min read 32 views

Fourteen new BYD BD11 battery-electric buses are set to begin service next week in Northumberland, UK. Funded through a partnership with the North East Combined Authority, the vehicles will operate from Arriva’s depot in Blyth. The project marks a £6.1 million investment by Arriva, part of a larger effort to replace one-third of its fleet in the region with new models. Additional funding covers refurbishing existing buses and upgrading depot facilities as part of a £37 million regional plan. This overhaul includes not only the acquisition of new vehicles but also the modernization of infrastructure to support long-term operational needs, such as enhanced charging capabilities and maintenance spaces tailored for electric fleets.

The buses are the first provincial-specification BYD11 models delivered to a UK customer outside London since the vehicle’s 2024 launch. They will serve routes 43, 44, and 45, connecting Morpeth, Dinnington, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Kim McGuinness, mayor of the North East, aims to transition all regional buses to zero-emission technology within a decade. She noted the area already operates nearly 100 electric buses, with fare caps and increased ridership supporting the shift. The fare capping initiative, part of The Mayor’s Fares program, has been credited with making public transport more accessible to lower-income residents, thereby encouraging broader adoption of electric services as a viable alternative to private car use.

Martijn Gilbert, Arriva UK Bus managing director, described the investment as a sign of confidence in the region. “Customers will experience smoother, quieter journeys,” he said. “Drivers and engineers are trained to handle the new electric fleet, ensuring reliable service.”

BYD is also supplying 191 electric buses for Arriva’s London operations and 39 more for other UK locations. The rollout in Northumberland aligns with broader UK efforts to expand zero-emission public transport. Local officials emphasized the project’s role in improving service quality while reducing environmental impact. In London, where Arriva operates a significant portion of the city’s bus network, the integration of these 191 vehicles is expected to accelerate the transition away from diesel, particularly in high-traffic areas where air quality improvements are a priority. The additional 39 buses for other regions show the scale of Arriva’s commitment to electrification across the UK, positioning the company as a key player in the national shift toward sustainable transport.