UK launches first bus manufacturing panel
By Luke Willetts - 17th March 2025
UK – On March 13, 2025, the UK government inaugurated its first “Bus Manufacturing Expert Panel” at the Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield. Chaired by Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood, the panel convened industry leaders from Alexander Dennis, Wrightbus, the Confederation of Passenger Transport, the Urban Transport Group, and metro mayors Oliver Coppard (South Yorkshire) and Tracy Brabin (West Yorkshire).
The panel aims to bolster the UK's bus manufacturing, particularly in the zero-emission sector, by fostering collaboration between manufacturers, operators, and local authorities. Discussions focused on strategies to enhance domestic production, support regional economies, and meet local transport goals. Key topics included exploring bulk orders and standardised designs to reduce costs while accommodating the diverse needs of British communities.
