In recent years there has been universal agreement that traditional methods of fuelling buses and coaches need to be replaced with zero-emission alternatives. Zero-emission buses (ZEBs) are the latest development in bus technology and follow the introduction of low-emission buses and ultra-low emission buses. Bus companies have trialled and ordered considerable deliveries of electric, hydrogen and hybrid vehicles but the process hasn’t been without its problems, specifically around having the necessary infrastructure in place for charging batteries. Coach operators are starting to come on board too with longer distance journeys now possible.

Richard Walter examines developments in both the UK and overseas with an array of many previously unpublished and fascinating photographs of the myriad zero-emission vehicles now in service.