Electrifying the X66

Our new single-decker electric buses are electrifying our X66 service between Gateshead and the Metrocentre, which carried more than 900,000 passengers last year.

Ben Gilligan, our Managing Director, says: “I’m really excited to say that our X66 service is now fully electric. Our new buses will make a huge difference to our customers and communities in Gateshead. Our passengers onboard will enjoy smoother, more comfortable journeys on modern vehicles while communities benefit from quieter, zero emission buses on their streets.”

Jonah, a five year old who loves buses and trains, had the chance to check out the new buses before they went out in service this week. They have his seal of approval - he rated them 11 out of 10!

The new buses feature a range of accessibility upgrades, such as an additional wheelchair or pram space, audio-visual next-stop announcements, hearing loops and external sounders to alert pedestrians, helping to make bus travel more inclusive for everyone. The single-decker vehicles were manufactured in the UK by Alexander Dennis. 

The buses are part of a £17 million joint investment from Go North East, the North East Combined Authority and the Department for Transport. Thanks to this investment, we have already introduced 25 new electric double decker buses to their fleet, operating on the Angel 21 and service 58.

Find out more about the X66 and plan your journey here.