Croydon goes Electric

As part of Transport for London's plans for cleaner air across London, there is currently a trial of new electric buses across London. Some examples have been in service for one year now, including the BYDs with Go Ahead London and the Metrocities with London United have been in service for around six months. It was also announced that Arriva London South would be receiving two Optare Metrocity' electrics for use on route 312. This short 4 mile long route between South Croydon bus garage, where these vehicles are based and Norwood Junction station, is perfect for electric vehicles, due to the fact the route is short and terminates at the depot, where charging points have been installed. These vehicles arrived in early November, and have been sitting in the depot undergoing engineering familiarisation, due to the fact Arriva London does not currently operate any Optare vehicles and driver type training. However, on the 10th of December, the buses enetered service on route 312, and the following day, I decided to travel out and see the new vehicles. These vehicles have been ordered to a specification including Isringhausen Civic V2 and V3 seating and a Magtec P144 electric drive system. There is also reports that at the new contract of route 312 in 8 months time, electric buses will be used fully. I was impressed by the quiet and smooth ride and look forward to more of these vehicles. I hope you enjoyed reading this post.