Wrightbus wins new contract to supply next-generation ultra-low emission buses for Nottingham

The state-of-the-art, ultra-low emission StreetDeck Ultroliner bus, built by Wrightbus in Ballymena

In a significant step towards sustainable public transport, Wrightbus, a leading UK bus manufacturer, has joined forces with the acclaimed Nottingham City Transport (NCT), named UK Bus Operator of the Year, to revolutionise the Pathfinder bus service connecting Nottingham, Burton Joyce, Lowdham, and Southwell.

The partnership will see six new ultra-low emission diesel-powered double-decker buses introduced to the route, offering enhanced passenger comfort and a substantial reduction in harmful emissions.

The state-of-the-art StreetDeck Ultroliner buses, set to be constructed at Wrightbus’s factory in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, are slated to begin service in late autumn 2025.

These vehicles, designed to replace NCT’s decade-old fleet, promise to deliver a superior travel experience while aligning with stricter environmental standards.

The buses are Ultra-Low Emission Bus (ULEB) accredited, boasting an impressive 80% reduction in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions and lower Particulate Matter (PM) emissions compared to the 2014 models they will replace.

Enhanced Features for Passenger Comfort

The new buses are tailored to meet the demands of the long-distance Pathfinder route, incorporating a range of passenger-focused features. These include comfier high-back seats ideal for extended journeys, free Wi-Fi, USB charging points, and a table on the upper deck for added convenience.

Accessibility has also been prioritised, with two dedicated wheelchair spaces, hearing loops, and next-stop displays designed to be visible to all passengers.

David Astill, NCT Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating:

“We are delighted to be working with Wrightbus to deliver a significant upgrade to our Pathfinder service, replacing buses that are over a decade old with brand new, quieter, low emission buses that will boast features that are designed for the long distance nature of the route.”

A Commitment to Cleaner Transport

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to reducing the environmental impact of public transport.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Wrightbus, highlighted the advanced technology behind the new buses, saying:

“The combination of the latest generation of engines from Cummins and the latest technology from Voith, coupled with our industry-leading Micro Hybrid technology, means these StreetDeck Ultroliners offer optimal efficiency in the diesel market.

“We’re delighted that Wrightbus ultra-low emission vehicles that have been designed and built here in the UK will soon be on the streets of Nottingham, offering passengers a comfortable journey while also helping to lower emissions.”

While Wrightbus is renowned as Europe’s largest provider of zero-emission buses, Gales acknowledged the financial challenges some operators face in transitioning to fully electric or hydrogen-powered fleets.

“While we are proudly known for being the largest provider of zero emission buses in Europe, the fact remains that not all operators can access the funding to make the immediate switch to zero-emission,” he noted.

To address this, Wrightbus has ensured that its diesel buses, like the StreetDeck Ultroliners, are engineered for maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Furthermore, through its innovative NewPower business, these buses can be retrofitted to become fully electric in the future, offering a sustainable long-term solution.

Gales added: “As a leading bus manufacturer, our role is to make sure our diesel buses are as clean and efficient as possible and to ensure we can give them a second life as a zero-emission bus in the future through our NewPower business.”

A Future-Proof Solution for Nottingham

For NCT, the new buses represent a pragmatic approach to decarbonising one of its longest routes, the Pathfinder 26, where battery-electric buses are not yet viable.

David Astill explained:

“As one of our longest bus routes, battery electric buses aren’t a viable or realistic option for Pathfinder 26 currently or in the immediate future, but these buses can be repowered by Wrightbus and their NewPower business in the future to be fully electric, which will be something we’ll consider when battery technology advances further.”

This forward-thinking strategy ensures that NCT can continue to provide reliable, high-quality service while keeping future sustainability goals in sight. The partnership underscores both organisations’ dedication to balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.

Wrightbus: Driving UK Manufacturing and Sustainability

Wrightbus, recently recognised as Europe’s fastest-growing bus manufacturer, continues to play a pivotal role in the UK’s public transport sector.

Employing over 2,300 people at its Ballymena factory, the company is on track to produce a record 1,200 buses in 2025. By 2027, Wrightbus expects to support 7,200 jobs across the UK supply chain, reinforcing its economic impact.

The company’s “blended approach to responsible technology,” as described by Gales, encompasses battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and advanced diesel solutions. This strategy ensures that operators like NCT can decarbonise their fleets without compromising financial viability.

“Our blended approach to responsible technology, which includes battery electric, hydrogen fuel cell and the cleanest technologies, ensures our customers can continue to decarbonise while maintaining financially viable operations,” Gales affirmed.

A Greener Future for Nottingham’s Commuters

The introduction of the StreetDeck Ultroliner buses marks a significant milestone for Nottingham’s public transport network.

Passengers on the Pathfinder route can look forward to a quieter, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly journey, while NCT and Wrightbus pave the way for a sustainable future.

As battery technology evolves, the potential to repower these buses to zero-emission electric models ensures that this investment is future-proof.

This collaboration between Wrightbus and Nottingham City Transport sets a benchmark for how innovation, accessibility, and environmental responsibility can converge to enhance public transport in the UK. As these ultra-low emission buses hit the streets of Nottingham in late 2025, they will not only improve the passenger experience but also contribute to cleaner air and a greener city.