From Scams to Sustainability: The Rollercoaster Ride of Electric Buses

As we witness the rising popularity of electric buses as a sustainable mode of transport, it's intriguing to delve into the history that preceded this green revolution. Contrary to popular belief, electric buses aren't a new concept but have a rich history dating back to the early 1900s.

The London Electrobus Company (LEC), established in July 1907, boasted a fleet of 20 electric buses, impressing passengers with their 60km battery range and reliability. However, behind the scenes, the company was entangled in a web of corruption, fraud, and deception. Accusations surfaced that LEC was spending funds on worthless patents, leading to a scandal that tarnished the company's reputation.

This historical tale of deceit and courtroom battles led to the demise of London's electric buses by 1910, leaving the technology dormant for a century. Fast forward to 2022, and electric buses are making a comeback in Perth, Australia, with four Volvo battery-electric buses serving commuters in an environmentally-friendly manner. These buses, powered by lithium-ion batteries, have covered over 280,000km, saving approximately 460 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

For teachers interested in integrating this story into their lessons, the "Greening the Future" lesson plan on the Get on Board website provides an excellent opportunity. Explore the ups and downs of electric buses with your students, discussing historical contexts and linking it to the current push for sustainable public transport.

Let's empower the next generation with knowledge about the past, inspiring them to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Access the lesson plan on the Get on Board website: Greening the Future Lesson Plan