Electrification doesn’t improve service

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The Harrogate Bus Company 91 (YJ14 BCK), a battery electric Optare Solo EV, operating service 24 to Pateley Bridge. STEPHEN WHITELEY

The government’s aim to reduce emissions from vehicles is a laudable one in order to reduce pollution and improve the health of its citizens. However, I cannot help but feel that the poor bus passenger is bearing an unfair burden in achieving this aspiration, often paying higher fares and experiencing reduced services as operators comply. Take Harrogate as an example. Electric buses have been introduced at a purported cost of £4million. Much delayed from an original introduction date of 28 July, even now not all of these services are operated by such buses in late December.

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