FUNDING to roll out 145 zero and low emission buses in Northern Ireland has been secured as part of a Stormont "green recovery" scheme.
Infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon confirmed £66 million will be invested to make the north's public transport the most environmentally friendly on the island.
The 100 zero emission buses are made up of 80 Battery Electric Vehicles and 20 Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles. They will be deployed between Metro in Belfast and Foyle Metro services in Derry.
There will also be 45 low emissions buses for Ulsterbus services across the north.
Wrightbus will produce the vehicles.
Ms Nichola Mallon said: "Cleaner, greener, sustainable transport is key to protecting our environment and fighting the climate crisis. I have an ambitious vision for a low carbon future where we make low emission public transport accessible to people and communities across Northern Ireland.
"I have been clear since coming to office that we must act now to deliver the change that our communities and our citizens deserve."
She added: "Today marks a very positive step forward that will create jobs, encourage investment, as well as being pivotal in cutting the level of emissions.
"As well as reducing pollution, the new vehicles will have additional safety features and improved comfort and accessibility, helping to grow passenger numbers, increase overall customer satisfaction and make public transport a more attractive and efficient alternative to private cars."
