Gwynedd’s picturesque landscapes are now more accessible than ever as the region welcomes its first fleet of electric buses, promising travellers a serene and eco-friendly journey through North Wales. The £3.6 million initiative, a collaboration between Cyngor Gwynedd and Transport for Wales (TfW), aims to revolutionise public transport in the area, offering stress-free travel options amidst some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.
Launched in February, the new TrawsCymru T22 service connects the towns of Caernarfon, Porthmadog, and Blaenau Ffestiniog, boasting state-of-the-art features aimed at enhancing passenger experience. Gone are the days of noisy diesel engines, replaced by the gentle hum of electric motors, offering commuters a smoother and quieter ride. Passengers can now enjoy convenient amenities such as USB and wireless charging facilities, ensuring their devices remain powered throughout the journey.
One notable feature of these modern buses is the inclusion of red mood lights, adding a touch of ambience to the interior and perhaps inspiring a sense of relaxation among travellers. While air conditioning is absent for passengers, the driver’s cab ensures a comfortable environment for those at the helm.
A representative of Transport for Wales expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the innovative features of the electric buses and their potential to transform the travel experience. “These electric TrawsCymru buses really are state-of-the-art,” they remarked. “They’ve got some incredible features on them… and being electric, the buses give a really smooth and quiet ride. So you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery around you.”
Beyond providing enhanced services for locals, the introduction of electric buses aims to encourage sustainable tourism by enticing visitors to leave their cars behind. Operated by Llew Jones International, the six-strong fleet of Yutong E12 buses represents a significant step towards reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly travel in Wales.
The T22 service offers more frequent connections between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Porthmadog, with hourly trips, and every two hours between Porthmadog and Caernarfon. This route partially overlaps with the existing T2 service, facilitating smoother journeys for passengers traveling between Aberystwyth and Bangor.
Expanding the reach of public transport, the T22 route extends into rural communities, providing vital connections and reducing reliance on private vehicles. An executive at TfW emphasised the importance of integrating buses with other modes of transport to better serve the needs of both locals and tourists. “So these additional services will offer more opportunities for people to leave their cars behind and take the bus whenever possible,” they explained.
Despite initial setbacks, including the abandonment of the T19 route due to commercial viability concerns and delays in bus delivery, the launch of the T22 service marks a significant milestone in Wales’ transition towards sustainable transport solutions. A representative from Llew Jones International expressed pride in the company’s role as a pioneer in eco-friendly transportation, reaffirming their commitment to serving communities with efficient and environmentally conscious transport options.
With the T22 service now operational, Gwynedd residents and visitors alike can look forward to convenient and sustainable travel options amidst the region’s stunning landscapes. As efforts to promote green initiatives in public transport continue, the future looks brighter for Welsh commuters and the environment alike.
