Transdev Unleashes Hybrid Power on Flyer Airport Network
Transdev in Yorkshire has commenced the phased deployment of its new £3.5 million fleet of hybrid-electric buses onto its established FLYER network, serving Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA). This significant investment underscores Transdev's commitment to modernising public transport infrastructure, aligning with contemporary demands for increased passenger capacity, enhanced accessibility and reduced environmental impact.
The initial vehicles from the 15-strong fleet began service today, Thursday 3rd July 2025. These ultra-low emission single-deck buses are integrated across three dedicated routes linking key urban centres—Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate and Otley—directly with Leeds Bradford Airport. The introduction of this new fleet is set to deliver improved service frequency with departures up to every 30 minutes from early morning to late evening, alongside considerable advancements in passenger experience.
Beyond capacity, a core advantage of this fleet is its hybrid power solution. Engineers at Mercedes-Benz anticipate an 8.5% reduction in fuel consumption, directly contributing to a proportional decrease in total CO2 emissions. This is achieved through the bus's 14 kW electric motor, which recovers kinetic energy during coasting and braking. This regenerated energy is then stored and subsequently used to assist the internal combustion engine during acceleration, thereby optimising fuel efficiency. Each bus is also equipped with a Euro VI engine, adhering to the strictest European emission standards for diesel engines, ensuring minimal pollutants.
Safety has been a paramount consideration in the design of these vehicles. The Citaro Hybrid buses incorporate advanced safety systems such as electronic assistance for front and turning manoeuvres, traffic sign monitoring and electronic tyre pressure reporting. Furthermore, Acceleration Skid Control significantly reduces stopping distances in emergency situations through precise and rapid braking application. Each bus also provides ample luggage space, recognising the specific requirements of airport commuters.
From a maintenance perspective, the virtually maintenance-free hybrid storage module, located on the roof of each single-deck bus, utilises innovative 48-volt technology, negating the need for frequent servicing and contributing to higher operational reliability.
The full complement of 15 new hybrid vehicles is expected to be in service over the coming weeks.
Ongoing projects at LBA include a comprehensive refurbishment of the existing terminal and the construction of a new security hall. Leeds Bradford Airport projects that these developments hold the potential to generate 1,500 direct airport jobs and an additional 4,000 indirect jobs by 2030, underscoring the regional economic impact of these infrastructure improvements.
The FLYER network operates under a collaborative three-way partnership between Transdev, Leeds Bradford Airport and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, demonstrating a unified approach to regional transport development.
For detailed timetables and ticketing information, please visit transdevbus.co.uk/flyer or access the free Transdev Go mobile application.
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| Transdev Blazefield |
The initial vehicles from the 15-strong fleet began service today, Thursday 3rd July 2025. These ultra-low emission single-deck buses are integrated across three dedicated routes linking key urban centres—Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate and Otley—directly with Leeds Bradford Airport. The introduction of this new fleet is set to deliver improved service frequency with departures up to every 30 minutes from early morning to late evening, alongside considerable advancements in passenger experience.
Optimised Capacity and Environmental Benefits
The new Mercedes-Benz Citaro single-deck hybrid buses represent a substantial upgrade in operational efficiency and passenger accommodation. Each new bus features 39 seats and offers ample space for up to 31 standing passengers, resulting in a total capacity of 70 individuals. This marks a 29% increase in passenger throughput per vehicle compared to the outgoing diesel-powered buses, which accommodated 54 passengers. This capacity enhancement is critical for managing peak demand, particularly given the recent expansion of LBA's terminal facilities.Beyond capacity, a core advantage of this fleet is its hybrid power solution. Engineers at Mercedes-Benz anticipate an 8.5% reduction in fuel consumption, directly contributing to a proportional decrease in total CO2 emissions. This is achieved through the bus's 14 kW electric motor, which recovers kinetic energy during coasting and braking. This regenerated energy is then stored and subsequently used to assist the internal combustion engine during acceleration, thereby optimising fuel efficiency. Each bus is also equipped with a Euro VI engine, adhering to the strictest European emission standards for diesel engines, ensuring minimal pollutants.
Executive Perspectives on Strategic Investment
Transdev Managing Director Henri Rohard said:“We are delighted to introduce our new hybrid buses to our FLYER branded bus network, at a significant time for travel to the Airport with the new terminal building extension now open to customers.Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), said:
“Our investment in the most up-to-date hybrid technology is providing a full aviation designed and dedicated fleet to Leeds Bradford Airport, giving airline customers, our customers in general and our colleagues a much more comfortable, accessible and environmentally friendly journey than ever before.
“On board each new bus is a full package of customer comfort features, including next stop information displays including a screen facing the dedicated wheelchair space, and a hearing loop system to make communication easier for customers with a hearing disability. There’s also fast and free on-board Wi-Fi and USB charging, plus the latest pedestrian and cyclist detection systems to make the roads safer for everyone.
“Each new bus also has plentiful luggage space, reflecting our FLYER buses’ role in taking thousands of business and leisure travellers to connect with flights. We look forward to welcoming our existing and new customers to our fleet.”
“We’re delighted to welcome the new hybrid offering to the FLYER fleet at LBA.
“These bespoke hybrid vehicles will not only provide our customers with a more comfortable journey to the airport, but they also use less fuel than their traditional counterparts. In turn, this helps to play an important role in reducing our Scope 3 emissions, and supports our journey to Net Zero.”
Mr Hodder's comments highlight the critical role of the new fleet in addressing Scope 3 emissions. In the context of an airport, these are indirect emissions that occur in the value chain, such as passenger and staff commutes. By promoting the use of these lower-emission buses, LBA actively progresses towards its Net Zero targets – the overarching goal of balancing greenhouse gas emissions released with those removed from the atmosphere.
Advanced Passenger Experience and Safety Systems
The new FLYER buses are equipped with a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance the passenger experience. These include next-stop information displays with a dedicated screen positioned for wheelchair users, and an integrated hearing loop system to assist passengers with hearing impairments. Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi and USB charging ports cater to the connectivity needs of modern travellers.Safety has been a paramount consideration in the design of these vehicles. The Citaro Hybrid buses incorporate advanced safety systems such as electronic assistance for front and turning manoeuvres, traffic sign monitoring and electronic tyre pressure reporting. Furthermore, Acceleration Skid Control significantly reduces stopping distances in emergency situations through precise and rapid braking application. Each bus also provides ample luggage space, recognising the specific requirements of airport commuters.
From a maintenance perspective, the virtually maintenance-free hybrid storage module, located on the roof of each single-deck bus, utilises innovative 48-volt technology, negating the need for frequent servicing and contributing to higher operational reliability.
The full complement of 15 new hybrid vehicles is expected to be in service over the coming weeks.
Synergistic Development with Airport Expansion
Transdev's fleet investment coincides with the recent opening of Leeds Bradford Airport’s expanded terminal building. This expansion has augmented customer-facing areas by approximately 40%, incorporating three new boarding gates, an upgraded immigration area, a reconfigured baggage collection hall and significantly increased seating capacity (83% more).Ongoing projects at LBA include a comprehensive refurbishment of the existing terminal and the construction of a new security hall. Leeds Bradford Airport projects that these developments hold the potential to generate 1,500 direct airport jobs and an additional 4,000 indirect jobs by 2030, underscoring the regional economic impact of these infrastructure improvements.
The FLYER network operates under a collaborative three-way partnership between Transdev, Leeds Bradford Airport and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, demonstrating a unified approach to regional transport development.
For detailed timetables and ticketing information, please visit transdevbus.co.uk/flyer or access the free Transdev Go mobile application.
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