A new eco-friendly transport option has gone into service in Farnham.

The state-of-the-art electric bus was unveiled by the Mayor of Farnham, Councillor Alan Earwaker on Thursday 6 July. It is the second electric vehicle to join Waverley hoppa Community Transport’s fleet and marks a major milestone in hoppa’s mission to reduce its carbon footprint.

The bus has a range of 150 miles which means it can achieve a school run and fulfil a day’s bookings on the hoppa Shoppa route.

Richard Davies, General Manager at hoppa says: “We are extremely grateful to Farnham Town Council for giving a grant of £20,000 towards the cost of this new bus. Although the running costs of an electric bus are cheaper than a diesel equivalent, the upfront cost is 2.5 times more which makes the transition to electric a major financial commitment for a charity such as us. Despite the challenge, we have set ourselves the ambitious target of having half our fleet electric by 2030. With support from corporate partners who want to join us on the advancement of eco-friendly community transport, I am confident we will be able to achieve our goal.”

The launch of Farnham’s new electric vehicle was attended by the deputy Mayor of Farnham and the Town Council’s joint leaders as well as representatives from hoppa.

Guests were treated to a ride on the new bus and were impressed by the cutting-edge technology, superior performance and comfort.

To travel on hoppa, customers first need to register which is quick and free to do at www.hoppa.org.uk/register or call 01428 681701.