In a decisive move towards advancing eco-conscious transportation initiatives, Kent County Council (KCC) has finalized a landmark 15-year contract extension for the Kent Thameside Fastrack service. This extension reaffirms KCC’s unwavering dedication to providing reliable public transport solutions while championing environmental sustainability.
Electrifying the Commute: A Greener Future Ahead
Scheduled to roll out between November 2024 and April 2025, the upgraded service will introduce a fleet of 28 state-of-the-art, all-electric buses to replace the existing diesel-powered vehicles. These environmentally friendly buses will serve the Dartford and Gravesham areas, promising to redefine the commuting experience while significantly reducing harmful carbon emissions.
Partnerships Paving the Way for Change
Integral to this transformative journey towards sustainable mobility are key partnerships formed to ensure the project’s success. VEV, a leading provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, will lead the installation of on-street charging points exclusively dedicated to powering the new electric buses. Meanwhile, Irizar, renowned for its innovative electric bus technology, will manufacture the selected ie-Tram buses, with operational duties entrusted to Go Ahead London.
A Testament to Confidence and Quality
Neil Baker, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, expressed enthusiasm for the impending upgrade, affirming, “This is an exciting time for users of our Kent Thameside Fastrack service as we upgrade our fleet to new electric models. With the added security of a 15-year contract, passengers can be confident that this service is here to stay.”
David Cutts, Managing Director of Go-Ahead London, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled user experience. “We are delighted to welcome the Kent Fastrack network into our portfolio and intend to provide a high-quality user experience from a dedicated facility in Dartford,” Cutts remarked.
Pioneering a Sustainable Future
Iñigo Etxeberria, Managing Director of Irizar e-mobility, expressed pride in their electric bus technology being selected for the Fastrack BRT network, stating, “This is a clear testament to the confidence placed in our products and proof of our quality and reliability. KCC’s significant investment in sustainable public transport solutions is commendable, and we are honoured to be part of this exciting project.”
Forging Ahead Together
Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, commended the collaborative effort between the public and private sectors in driving towards a greener, more connected future. “This ground-breaking project exemplifies the transformative potential when public and private entities unite to build a greener, more connected future,” Nakrani remarked.
A Bold Step Towards Sustainability
The extension of the Kent Thameside Fastrack service symbolizes a significant leap forward in the region’s journey towards promoting sustainable transportation and mitigating carbon emissions. This initiative not only ensures enhanced connectivity for communities in north Kent but also underscores the collective commitment to building a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
