First Bus has announced a major shake-up to its Glasgow services.

In a groundbreaking new deal, the firm is embarking on its electric vehicle partnership to date with Openreach to deliver more environmentally friendly services.

The first phase will see up to 30 new Openreach electric vehicles from its fleet charging at First depots in Glasgow, which has 160 state-of-the-art charging points, and in Aberdeen.

In doing this, Openreach engineers can cover more ground, reduce the negative impact on the environment and dedicate more time to customers.

First's Caledonia depot has 160 state-of-the-art rapid charging points. 

Graeme Macfarlan, commercial director for First Bus Scotland, said: “We are delighted to be launching this new partnership with Openreach which demonstrates the power that comes from working together to reduce carbon emissions and improve the air quality in the communities we serve. 

 “As businesses across Scotland embark on the journey to electrify their fleets, it simply isn’t practical for every business to build its own charging infrastructure.

"We understand these challenges and are providing a smart solution that benefits the community and optimises space. It’s simple and effective – and everyone wins! 

“At First Bus, we are committed to delivering cleaner, greener journeys across our UK networks, not only through our own fleet but by working in partnership with businesses such as Openreach.

"We’d love to attract more businesses to charge up using our kit whilst our buses are out on the road.” 

Openreach currently has over 300 electric vehicles in its fleet but the plan is to convert all diesel vehicles to zero emissions by 2031.

Robert Thorburn, Openreach Scotland’s partnership director, said: “We are excited to try a new approach with First Bus that can potentially help both our businesses.

"As two major fleet operators in the UK, it makes sense for us to explore the most efficient ways to power up our electric vans and buses. 

“First Bus has made a massive investment in charging infrastructure and using their empty stations to juice up our vans will take pressure off public charge points.

"Our engineers often live in flats or apartments where charging is not yet an option, so this will make life easier for them too. 

“It’s all about learning and trying new, sustainable ways of working.

"There are many hurdles on the low carbon journey, and businesses need to join forces to overcome them, help drive wider adoption of electric vehicles and talk to government on issues like charging infrastructure availability.”