Bus company Midland Bluebird, part of the McGill’s Group, is buying 30 electric vehicles from a Chinese manufacturer for its services in the Forth Valley and Edinburgh.

The £14 million order with Yutong is part of a modernisation programme by McGill’s which acquired Midland Bluebird in September 2022.

It is introducing the high specification, single-decker buses along with the electrification of Larbert depot to support the transition to zero-emission transport.

McGill’s owners, Sandy and James Easdale, have been investing in the fleet, services and infrastructure, which has directly contributed to an 8% year-on-year passenger growth.

Sandy Easdale said: “When we took over Midland Bluebird, we made a firm commitment to invest in the business and its future.

“We are determined to provide our passengers with the best possible travel experience.”

His brother James added: “We are proud of the rejuvenation of Midland Bluebird since joining McGill’s Group. As has been seen at McGill’s and Xplore Dundee, Sandy and I are not just ready to acquire other operators to bring into the group, we are also committed to driving these businesses forward once under our control.

“Our focus has always been on innovation and sustainability, and this investment underscores our commitment to providing high-quality public transport across Scotland.”

Yutong has five manufacturing bases for the bus and coach, special vehicles, trucks, construction machinery, and parts and components.

It is among the world’s biggest electric bus manufacturers, with sales exceeding 190,000 units and a 10% global market share.

Yutong-built buses are now used by passengers in more than 100 countries and regions.