On Monday there were nine new electric vehicles driven out of the Lothian garage on the number 36 route between the Gyle Centre and Ocean Terminal.

This is part of the Lothian investment in a “modern, accessible and efficient public transport network”. The Wrightbus GB Kite Electroliners have cost £3.6 million and will give passengers a quieter, more comfortable journey all with better accessibility. The vehicles can each carry up to 76 passengers, have a dedicated wheelchair space, a flexible space for buggies or mobility aids and priority seating.

The zero-emission vehicles will support the company’s aim to become more sustainable.

Dylan Dastey, Engineering Director, Lothian, said: “We’re delighted to welcome these new GB Kite Electroliner vehicles into service in partnership with Wrightbus.

“This investment is about delivering the best possible experience for our customers, with modern vehicles that are comfortable, accessible and reliable. The new buses provide a quieter and smoother journey while helping us continue to improve the quality of our network.

“As customer expectations evolve, it’s important that we continue investing in our fleet and infrastructure to ensure public transport remains an attractive, accessible and convenient choice for people travelling across Edinburgh.”

Christian Reynolds, Managing Director of Wrightbus, said: “We are proud to be working with Lothian Buses as it continues its drive towards an all zero-emission fleet.

“Wrightbus has a proud history of working with Lothian. This latest partnership is not only another step towards decarbonising public transport, providing cleaner air for the people of Scotland, but also supports domestic supply chain jobs across Scotland and the UK.”

Management from Wrightbus and Lothian at the roll out of the new buses at Edinburgh Napier University’s Craiglockhart Campus