Zenobē and Go-Ahead leverage electric bus finance framework
Zenobē has funded 280 battery-electric buses for the Go-Ahead Group under a committed finance framework agreement (CFFA). The supplier says that will significantly cut the cost, complexity and execution of deployment of those vehicles across the group’s operations.
Cited as the first of its kind in the bus industry, the CFFA provides Go-Ahead with a pre-agreed, scalable credit line that can be drawn down as required to support its move to zero-emission. Four vehicle manufacturers are represented within the funding already provided.
The supplier says that a key benefit of the CFFA is its flexibility. When operators have limited control over contract award dates and vehicle supply chains, an ability to access financing when it is needed “is critical,” Zenobē, adds. The approach is also much faster, it continues.
“Rather than entering into repeated negotiations and executing individual lease agreements – a process often slowed by administration and complexity – funding can now be drawn down quickly under pre-agreed terms," the supplier continues. The CFFA thus provides far more cost certainty for operators, it adds.
Comments Zenobē Founder and Director Steven Meersman: “This agreement marks a significant step forward in how public transport operators can finance the transition to zero-emission fleets.
“We have worked closely with Go-Ahead for many years, and this first-of-its-kind framework gives it the flexibility, speed and cost certainty it needs as electrification accelerates.”
Mr Meersman adds that while electrification of bus fleets is inevitable, a question remains over how quickly that move can be scaled.
“By removing repetitive negotiations and enabling funding to be drawn down rapidly under pre-agreed terms, we are making it easier, faster and more cost-effective to deploy electric vehicles at scale while allowing operators to stay focused on running their networks.”
Go-Ahead Group Structured Finance Director Gonzalo Velasco underlines how flexible, scalable and quick to execute financing solutions are key to electrification. He adds that the committed finance framework with Zenobē gives certainty of funding being available when required, removing unnecessary complexity and delay.
“As routes are awarded on a franchise-by-franchise basis, the ability to draw down funding rapidly under pre-agreed terms supports more effective planning and enables us to accelerate the rollout of zero-emission buses while continuing to focus on delivering reliable services for passengers.”
EVM to stage summer sales event at Southwater on 12-13 June
Mini and midi vehicle dealer and converter EVM UK and Ireland will stage a summer sales event at its Southwater base in West Sussex on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June.
Customers, operators and other industry contacts are invited, with those parties asked to pre-register to ensure sufficient catering and staff provision. On show will be new and used stock from across the EVM range, including some event-only deals with significant savings, enhanced finance packages and warranties, and special purchase initiatives.
Such exclusive offers are cited by the dealership as making fleet upgrades easier and more affordable, giving visitors the opportunity to secure outstanding value and commit with confidence during the event.
Used vehicles will be showcased as part of an expanded programme for that stock by EVM. Newly-appointed Group Used Sales Manager Alistair Stalker notes “huge demand” for pre-owned models.
“We have built a strong portfolio and line-up for operators to view and test drive,” he says. “This sales event is the perfect opportunity to explore what is available and hear what is in the pipeline.”
An ‘EV corner’ will also be present, showcasing the latest EVM battery-electric minibuses and mobility vehicles. Founder and CEO Danny McGee acknowledges some operators' apprehension about moving towards electric, but believes that seeing those products in the metal and observing how well they work “makes a huge difference.”
As well as vehicles, test drives, food and refreshments and a prize draw, EVM staff members will be joined by representatives of partners. Five of those organisations have confirmed their presence so far.
Trade body RHA will stage PSV Accessible Information Regulations drop-in sessions and share the latest updates from the government, while Route Robin will showcase its Smart Accessible Information System.
Dawsongroup Bus and Coach will be on hand to discuss finance and operating lease options, while Stoke Park Finance will provide advice from its field. Rossetts Commercials will be available to discuss performance and reliability of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversions.
Further guest speakers and exhibitors will be announced over the coming weeks. EVM notes how the event also promises to be a useful networking opportunity, with the dealership’s onsite technicians, parts staff, drivers and aftersales team on hand.
Adds Mr McGee: “This is a first for us, and the whole business is invested in making it a standout occasion. We are rolling out the red carpet for the loyal customers and contacts who have supported us over the years. With a great range of both new and used stock on site right now, there really is something for everyone.”
Register your attendance at the EVM summer sales event by clicking here.
Second Van Hool T16 Astron joins Richmonds Coaches fleet
Richmonds Coaches of Barley has added its second Van Hool T16 Astron, supplied by VDL Bus and Coach UK.
It follows an earlier example delivered in late 2025. The new coach has 53 Kiel seats in leather with diamond stitching. They come with drop-down tables, three-point belts, and USB charging points within the frame.
Other specification elements include a centre sunken toilet, a boiler, and a fridge. PSVAR compliance was required by the Hertfordshire operator, with a passenger lift over the front axle and silver LED destination displays.
A camera monitoring system is complemented by a 270-degree display of the sides and rear, a pedestrian warning system for the driver, peripheral downlighting, extra marker lights, and parking sensors within the rear bumper.
Power is from the DAF MX-13 engine at 530bhp coupled to an Allison T525R six-speed automatic gearbox, with the exterior in Richmonds Coaches’ distinctive livery.
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