BUSES in Oxford now comply with the criteria set by the city’s Low Emission Zone. In January, the city’s LEZ comes into effect and requires buses to comply with European standards for levels of nitrogen. Accordingly, the Oxford Bus Company has upgraded its fleet to electric hybrid buses cutting fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 39 per cent. The city council is committed to a low emissions strategy, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by 5,000 tonnes.

Oxford Bus Company managing director Philip Kirk said: “In five years we’ve invested more than £15m in the greenest vehicles.”

OCC cabinet member for transport David Nimmo Smith said: “I look forward to seeing more of this kind of bus on our roads as we continue the drive towards a cleaner, greener Oxfordshire.”