Drivers favour electric coach and bus over diesel, VEV survey finds
Research by fleet electrification specialist VEV has found that 78% of coach and bus drivers it questioned prefer piloting electric vehicles over diesel examples, with 87% citing reduced cab noise as the primary benefit.
In addition, 67% of survey participants reported lower fatigue behind the wheel with an electric vehicle, while 65% said that they are comfortable across a full shift. Drivers of all ages expressed support for the move to electric, VEV says.
On a wider basis, the research found that 75% of respondents reported an improvement in passenger comfort with electric and 90% saw neutral or positive reaction from travellers, driven by quieter, smoother and cleaner journeys.
The results came from an online survey of 114 coach and bus drivers conducted between 10 May and 9 June.
Speaking about the work, VEV Commercial and Marketing Director Sam Hoyland says: “What is striking about these findings is that they come from the people who spend all day behind the wheel. Drivers are telling us that electric buses create a better working environment with less fatigue, less noise, and a smoother overall experience.
“The conversation around electrification often focuses on environmental targets and technology, but this research shows there is also a very human story. The people operating these vehicles every day are overwhelmingly positive about the experience, and that is an important signal for the future of public transport.”
Campaign for Better Transport Director of Policy and Research Silviya Barrett has welcomed the findings, noting how electric buses’ benefits to the environment and air quality are well known and that “they also have the potential to transform how people experience public transport.”
She continues: “When public transport becomes a more attractive option, it helps people to stay connected to work, education and healthcare, and to one another. That is vital for building stronger, more inclusive communities and ensuring that everyone can access the opportunities they need to thrive.”
RHA claims repeat recognition at SME4Labour Excellence Awards
RHA has been named SME Business and Trade Association of the Year at the SME4Labour Excellence Awards 2026.
It follows the same triumph in 2025. This year’s award was collected at the SME4Labour gala dinner at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square on 22 June. RHA was one of two winners in its category alongside the Federation of Small Businesses, and among 10 finalists.
The SME4Labour Excellence Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to SME success and the Labour movement nationwide. The SME Business and Trade Association of the Year category sits alongside others that include Labour MP of the Year, Trade Union of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year.
“From entrepreneurs and trade unions to MPs, councillors and campaigners, the awards honour those who are driving progress, delivering meaningful change, and standing up for shared valued of fairness, opportunity, and social responsibility,” SME4Labour says.
Other finalists in the category where RHA jointly triumphed included the British Beer and Pub Association, the Institute of Directors, Make UK, the National Association of Fish Friers, and the Trade Association Forum.
Collecting the award for RHA were Director of External Affairs David Boot and Head of Operations Stephen Hands.
Speaking about the victory, Managing Director Richard Smith says: “This is the second year we have won this award, and it recognises our effective stakeholder engagement and the collaborative way we work with partners, members and decision-makers to champion the road transport and logistics sector.
“It is always pleasing to see the RHA team recognised for their efforts and the impact they make through strong relationships and shared purpose. This is also testament to the work our members do to help us shape a better future for our key sector. A huge thank you to everyone who voted and supported us.”
Connexions Buses adds 98-seat Volvo MCV tri-axle double-deck
Connexions Buses has taken delivery of a Volvo B8L with MCV EvoSeti bodywork. It is operating as part of the Connexions Coach-branded fleet and has been supplied by Volvo Bus UK and Ireland.
The tri-axle arrival has 98 high-backed seats in a red-based scheme with three-point belts, and wood-effect flooring is fitted. It carries an adapted version of the Connexions green-based livery and is compliant with the PSV Accessible Information Regulations.
The newcomer will support school transport, private hire and rail replacement duties. It sits alongside multiple single-deck B8RLEs with MCV bodywork that are used on local services by the Tockwith firm.
Connexions Buses Managing Director Craig Temple notes how the EvoSeti’s high capacity will be a particular benefit on commercial home-to-school services.
Alloy wheels and a cherished registration mark complete the appearance. The latter includes the initials of Mr Temple’s son Jake, who it is hoped will ultimately take on the business in the future.
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