Stagecoach, the UK’s leading bus operator, marked World Car Free Day by demonstrating how it is helping people across Scotland switch to more sustainable ways of travelling.
From coast to coast, the business used the global awareness day to underline its commitment to delivering cleaner, greener transport and to highlight the role buses can play in cutting congestion, reducing pollution and supporting Scotland’s journey to net zero.
In the East, Stagecoach unveiled one of Edinburgh Airport’s first fully electric, frequent airport bus services. Six new Volvo BZL electric buses are now operating on the JET747 route, connecting Fife with the airport terminal doors.
Running 24 hours a day, seven days a week, up to every 20 minutes, the new fleet offers passengers a faster, cleaner and more comfortable journey to Scotland’s busiest airport.
Meanwhile, on the West coast, Stagecoach celebrated the arrival of 26 brand new fully electric double-deckers in Ayrshire. Backed by an £18million investment, the Alexander Dennis Enviro400EV buses will run on the popular Service 11 route linking Ardrossan and Kilmarnock.
With new charging infrastructure installed at Ardrossan depot, this marks another significant step towards transforming bus travel across North and East Ayrshire. The launch brings the total number of electric buses in Ayrshire to 92, with more investment planned.
Reflecting on the day, Jacqueline Sutherland, Stagecoach’s head of marketing for Scotland, said: “World Car Free Day is about encouraging people to think differently about how they travel. Every bus journey helps reduce emissions, cut congestion, and improve air quality. I’d like to thank all our passengers because every time they take the bus, they’re helping to make a real difference. Even if you’re a regular car user, we’d encourage you to give the bus a try; with Stagecoach, we’ve got you and you might be pleasantly surprised.”
Alongside the launch of new fleets, Stagecoach is continuing to roll out a wide range of sustainability initiatives. These include:
- 100% renewable energy to power depots and buildings.
- Eco-driving technology with all drivers trained in fuel-efficient driving.
- Infrastructure upgrades to support the growing number of electric vehicles.
- Partnership projects such as working with SP Energy Networks on the UK’s first rural electric bus scheme.
Stagecoach has set ambitious goals to deliver a fully zero-emission UK bus fleet and become a carbon-neutral business by 2050, with Scotland playing a leading role in achieving these milestones.
The company also reminded people under 22 and over 60 that they can take advantage of free bus travel across Scotland; making greener, car-free journeys accessible to all ages.
World Car Free Day 2025 also coincided with Catch the Bus Month and European Mobility Week, giving people across the country even more reason to try out sustainable alternatives.