Highland Council Launches First Electric Bus in Inverness

Highland Council has introduced its first fully electric bus in Inverness, marking a key step in its move towards more sustainable public transport.

The 46-seat vehicle will be used for a range of services across the city, including school transport and local bus routes, as part of efforts to reduce emissions and modernise the fleet.

The council, which established its own bus company in 2023, described the launch as an important milestone in its transition to cleaner transport options.

The introduction of the electric bus coincides with a new pilot scheme aimed at making travel more affordable. From this week, single bus fares across the Highlands and Islands are being capped at £2 for a trial period of one year.

Further changes are also planned to improve accessibility and encourage public transport use. From early April, a £5 City Day Rider ticket will be introduced, allowing unlimited travel on all council-operated routes within Inverness. The ticket will be available both onboard and via the MyTrip app.

Paul Reid, the council’s chief officer for facilities and fleet management, said the new electric vehicle represents a significant step towards lowering carbon emissions while also improving the passenger experience through quieter and smoother journeys.

He added that the combination of cleaner vehicles and more affordable fares is designed to make public transport a more attractive option, helping to reduce reliance on private cars.