Bus Vannin is to introduce six new double-decker buses into its fleet, replacing vehicles that have been in service for up to 14 years.
The new buses, the first new double-deckers purchased since the pandemic, represent a total investment of £1.4million.
Director of Bus Vannin Ian Bates said: “Bus Vannin needs to replace old buses every year on a rolling basis. Typically, the buses being replaced have worked for 12 to 14 years and covered 600,000 miles.
“As the buses age they become unreliable, require additional maintenance and are prone to gearbox or engine failures, which can cost over £35,000 to replace.”
Heritage
Two of the new buses will feature special heritage liveries.
One will be painted in Douglas Corporation yellow and another in traditional Isle of Man Road Services red, marking next year’s 50th anniversary of a nationalised bus service. The manufacturer applied these liveries at no extra cost.
Infrastructure Minister Dr Michelle Haywood MHK said: “The six new buses will be more efficient than the ones they replace. People depend on our excellent buses and we need to deliver a reliable, clean and comfortable service.
“These new vehicles will maintain that service. They have the latest clean diesel technology and an eco-efficient gearbox, which helps to reduce emissions.’