Wrightbus reveals long-awaited 6x2 zero-emission bus with global rollout on the horizon

Jean-Marc Gales, Company CEO, with the new 6x2.

After two years in development, Wrightbus has today unveiled its much-anticipated 6x2 zero-emission bus, simultaneously rolling off production lines in Northern Ireland and Malaysia — a major milestone for the UK-based manufacturer.

The new 6x2 Streetdeck, designed to deliver greater battery capacity without compromising passenger numbers, represents a significant advancement in Wrightbus’ growing portfolio of clean transport solutions.

With firm orders already secured across Europe and the Far East, the prototype marks the latest development in what has been a record-breaking year for the company.

Wrightbus, which was rescued from administration in 2019 by green entrepreneur Jo Bamford, now employs over 2,300 people and builds 1,200 buses annually, 95% of which are zero-emission.

Company CEO Jean-Marc Gales hailed the latest model as a “triumph of engineering”, showcasing Wrightbus’ ambition to lead the global zero-emissions mobility sector.

“Our team has worked round the clock for the last two years to create this new zero-emission product,” said Mr Gales.

“To design a chassis which copes not only with fixed axle and steering axle configurations but also enables increased battery capability without compromising on passenger numbers is a real triumph for our engineers.”

The new vehicle is expected to undergo efficiency and durability testing over the summer, with a 12-month customer trial planned in Hong Kong. Wrightbus says opportunities for further expansion exist in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.

“We are building momentum not just in our home territories but overseas as well, as news of our brand reaches all corners of the globe,” said Mr Gales.

“We are the leading manufacturer in zero-emission technology, and we have more than 100 hydrogen buses heading to Germany, as well as fleets of hydrogen and battery-electrics across the UK.

“Our 6x2 will be another important string to our bow, showing that Wrightbus – 80 years old next year – is at the very forefront of technology.”

The launch of the 6x2 comes hot on the heels of several recent innovations, including a new electric midi-bus range, a next-generation hydrogen coach, a diesel coach, and a hydrogen-powered double-decker.

Wrightbus’ growth has also been supported by a £150 million finance package from HSBC UK, aimed at scaling up production and expanding internationally.

“We’ve invested into our growth significantly over the last 12 months, with more staff in Ballymena and Malaysia, new facilities for our repowering business - NewPower - in Bicester, and a European service centre in Brühl to ensure we have operational capacity to exceed customer demand,” added Mr Gales.

The company now supports 7,500 jobs in the wider supply chain, making its continued expansion a vital contributor to the broader UK economy.