Wrightbus Expands into Europe with 31 Hydrogen Buses for RVK
Wrightbus plans to expand its operations in Europe after receiving a major order from Regionalverkehr Köln Gmbh (RVK). This order includes 31 hydrogen buses, marking Wrightbus’ entry into the European market. The buses are currently being tested in Cologne before starting full service.
In addition, Wrightbus has secured orders for hydrogen buses from Vestische, Cottbus, West Verkehr, and Saarbahn. The company will also open a service center in Bruhl, Germany. This center will allow experts to service and maintain various bus types throughout Europe.
Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales commented on the significance of this operation, stating that it was the company’s first experience supplying buses to Europe and emphasized the care taken to ensure everything was correct before approval. He also mentioned the hiring of staff across Europe to support bus operations.
How is Wrightbus planning to support its operations in the European market?
Title: Wrightbus Expands Footprint in Europe: An Exclusive Interview with CEO Jean-Marc Gales
Wrightbus has made waves in the European transport sector with a significant order from Regionalverkehr Köln GmbH for 31 hydrogen buses, marking the company’s foray into a new market. We sat down with Wrightbus CEO Jean-Marc Gales to discuss this pivotal moment for the company and the future of sustainable transport in Europe.
Interviewer: Jean-Marc, congratulations on the major order from RVK. Can you tell us about the significance of this order for Wrightbus?
Jean-Marc Gales: Thank you! This order is monumental for us, marking Wrightbus’ official entry into the European market. It’s our first experience supplying buses here, and we’ve approached this expansion with a great deal of care. Ensuring that everything is correct before moving forward has been our top priority. The 31 hydrogen buses are currently undergoing testing in Cologne, and we are excited about their eventual rollout into service.
Interviewer: Beyond the RVK order, you’ve secured additional contracts with other operators like Vestische and Saarbahn. What do these orders signify for Wrightbus?
Jean-Marc Gales: Each new order reinforces our commitment to leading the charge in sustainable public transport. These contracts are not just about numbers; they signify a growing recognition of our technology and a shift in how cities are looking to meet their emission targets. West Verkehr and Cottbus have also joined the movement towards hydrogen mobility, which is incredibly encouraging.
Interviewer: Wrightbus is also opening a service center in Bruhl, Germany. How important is this facility for your operations across Europe?
Jean-Marc Gales: The service center in Bruhl is crucial. It will allow us to provide immediate support for our buses across Europe, ensuring they are maintained to the highest standard. Our team of experts will be on hand to service various bus types, enhancing the reliability and performance of our fleet throughout the region.
Interviewer: You’ve mentioned that Wrightbus is hiring staff across Europe to support these operations. What roles are you looking to fill?
Jean-Marc Gales: We are expanding our team to include engineers, service technicians, and operations staff who will help us manage our increasing presence. It’s vital that we have skilled personnel who understand the challenges and requirements of the European market, particularly as we ramp up production and service capabilities.
Interviewer: Recently, Wrightbus signed a significant deal with Go-Ahead to deliver over 1,000 buses by 2027. How do you see this impacting the push for emission-free public transport?
Jean-Marc Gales: This agreement is a game-changer. With 90 percent of the buses being emission-free, we are aligned with global efforts to create cleaner urban environments. It’s not just about meeting demand; it’s about pioneering solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future for public transport.
Interviewer: What can we expect from Wrightbus in the coming years?
Jean-Marc Gales: Our immediate focus is on successfully launching our hydrogen buses in Cologne and establishing our service center. As we grow in Europe, we’ll continue to innovate and adapt our products to meet local needs. Sustainability will remain at the forefront of our mission, and we are committed to ensuring that our expansion supports the transition to greener transport systems.
Interviewer: Thank you, Jean-Marc, for sharing your insights. It’s exciting to see Wrightbus making strides in Europe.
Jean-Marc Gales: Thank you for having me. We are excited about our journey ahead and the opportunities it brings for sustainable transport.
Recently, Wrightbus signed a deal to deliver over 1,000 buses to Go-Ahead by 2027. Ninety percent of these buses will be emission-free, contributing to more sustainable public transport solutions.