Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has today joined the NTA and TFI Local Link Kerry to announce the launch of two all-electric buses for the Dingle Daingean Uí Chúis area, making the trip around the peninsula quieter and emissions-free.
This announcement builds on the significant advancements in Kerry’s public transport networks since 2021 as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. Over the last three years, The National Transport Authority, in collaboration with TFI Local Link Kerry, has delivered 9 new and enhanced TFI Local Link services in the region.
The two buses will operate on Route 277 and Route 268
The two buses, operating on Route 277 and Route 268, will cover over 600km emission-free every day and will provide a smoother, cleaner journey for the local communities. Both services were enhanced last December, improving connectivity around the around the Dingle Peninsula.
(Pictured left to right) Blathin McElligott, TFI Local Link Programme Manager, the National Transport Authority, Alan O’Connell, General Manager, TFI Local Link Kerry and Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport Eamon Ryan.
Providing a cleaner, greener and smoother journey for the local community
With no engine vibration or noise, passengers can enjoy a smooth and peaceful journey. The buses are equipped with air conditioning for both the driver and passengers, ensuring a comfortable temperature inside the vehicle no matter the weather, while USB charging points allow passengers to stay connected throughout their journey. Additionally, the buses are fully accessible, making them suitable for all passengers.
The buses, Yutong E10 Electric Vehicles, have 422kWh batteries and have a range more than 370 km in real conditions on a single charge. The high battery capacity of the buses, coupled with newly installed charging infrastructure, will ensure that the buses are always ready for service.
Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan
The launch of the two buses is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.
A vital step towards sustainable public transport in rural Ireland
Speaking at the launch of the electric buses, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD stated: “The rollout of these two zero-emission buses in Dingle is another significant step towards a more sustainable future for public transport in rural Ireland. We are in pristine and majestic countryside here on the Daingean Ui Chuis area and it is fitting that these new buses will be clean, quiet and emission-free. We will continue to invest in green technology and prioritize sustainability to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for all.”
Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority, expressed her support for the rollout stating: “The launch of these two all-electric buses in the Dingle Daingean Uí Chúis area marks an important step towards sustainable public transport in rural Ireland. With over 370,000 passengers on TFI Local Link Kerry services last year, the buses will support continued passenger growth in a cleaner, greener way. “
Alan O’Connell, the General Manager of Local Link Kerry, commented: “TFI Local Link Kerry is delighted that the Dingle Peninsula has been chosen nationally as the area to introduce these two all-electric vehicles. In collaboration with the NTA, TFI Local Link Kerry has continued to expand public transport services on the Peninsula the region, which will now see 60,000 passenger trips annually. The introduction of these two all-electric vehicles is a vital step towards sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint while at the same time continuing to offer a first-class public transport system to residents and tourists on the Peninsula.”
Ian Downie, Head of Yutong UK, commented “Pelican are delighted to support the rollout of these vehicles in the Dingle Peninsula. We’re looking forward to seeing our E10’s in operation.”