Electric coach operator Watts Way Travel gains access to 14 UK charging depots thanks to First Bus’ initiative

London-based operator Watts Way Travel is using the First Charge network (backed by First Bus) to support the expansion of its electric coach operations across the United Kingdom.

The agreement provides the London-based operator with access to a network of electrified bus depots, enabling en-route charging and supporting longer-distance services as its zero-emission fleet increases. The development takes place within a context of growing deployment of battery-electric vehicles in commercial passenger transport, alongside the emergence of shared charging models.

First Charge network extends access to third-party fleets

First Charge has opened 14 electrified depots to third-party commercial vehicles, establishing a shared infrastructure network designed to accommodate both First Bus operations and external fleet operators. The available charging locations include Aberdeen, Basildon, Bristol, Glasgow, Leicester, Leeds, Norwich, Portsmouth, Taunton and York.

The infrastructure is positioned along regional and intercity corridors, enabling access to rapid charging facilities for operators running electric vehicles beyond depot-based duty cycles. The network is structured to support a range of commercial vehicle applications, including coaches and buses operating across extended routes.

Watts Way Travel fleet and operational scope

Watts Way Travel operates a fleet of electric coaches with seating capacities of 50, 57 and 72 passengers. The operator is expanding its zero-emission activities across the UK, with the integration of shared charging infrastructure supporting operational continuity on longer journeys.

Access to depot-based charging outside the operator’s own facilities enables additional route planning flexibility and supports the scaling of electric coach services across multiple regions.

The collaboration aligns with broader developments in fleet electrification, where access to charging infrastructure beyond proprietary depots is being incorporated into operational models for commercial transport.

In brief

• What is First Charge? A network of electrified bus depots opened to third-party commercial vehicles across the UK.
• How many depots are available? Fourteen locations are currently accessible, including major regional cities.
• What vehicles does Watts Way Travel operate? Electric coaches with capacities of 50, 57 and 72 seats.
• What is the purpose of the partnership? To enable en-route charging and support longer-distance electric coach operations.

Andy Gwilliam, Head of Product & Standards at First Charge, said: “We’re seeing increasing interest from commercial vehicle operators looking for practical, reliable charging infrastructure to support electrification. Operators like Watts Way Travel are helping demonstrate what’s possible with electric coaches today, and shared charging infrastructure will play an important role in giving more operators the confidence to make the transition. Our depots are already supporting a growing number of third-party commercial fleets, and it’s exciting to see pioneering coach operators making use of the network and helping drive the adoption of zero-emission transport across the industry.”

Mark Watts, Owner of Watts Way Travel, said: “We’ve always tried to push the boundaries of what electric coaches can achieve and show that they are already capable of delivering the vast majority of coach operations today. Part of that innovation is being willing to test new operating models, new routes and new charging approaches. Access to reliable charging infrastructure is critical for giving operators the confidence to electrify, particularly on longer-distance journeys. Having access to the First Charge network will help us continue expanding what’s possible for electric coach travel across the UK.”