transition to electric buses
Lewisham Council is discussing the practical challenges of transitioning to electric buses, particularly concerning charging infrastructure and time.
Lewisham Council is currently discussing the practicalities of transitioning to electric buses. In October 2026, Councillor Corinne Ashwell raised concerns at a Public Transport Liaison Forum meeting about the time required for charging electric buses compared to refuelling diesel ones. She highlighted that an electric bus might need three hours to charge, contrasting with 10 to 15 minutes for a diesel bus, which presents logistical challenges for service scheduling.
The transition to electric buses is an initiative to replace the current diesel public transport fleet with electric vehicles. This aims to shift towards greener transport options, but discussions at councils are now focusing on the operational implications of such a change.
Key facts
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 21 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.