Ireland’s first emission free people carrier was launched recently on the Island of Inis Oírr.

An Bus Pobail, as the vehicle will be known, will be operated by Comhar Caomhán Teo, the island’s co-operative. It is a six seater mini bus, has a range of 150 kilometres on a single charge and a top speed of 70kph. Powered by the latest advances in Lithium-ion Batteries it produces Zero emissions when driven. With little or no servicing required on the vehicle it is estimated that running costs will be as low as €200 a year. The co-operatives offices are presently supplied by renewable wind energy, ensuring that the bus will be charged with electricity coming from a renewable source. The people carrier is supplied by Green Machines, Dublin.

Robert Nolan, Managing Director, Green Machines, stated, “With Zero emissions and no noise, the Porter is an ideal vehicle not only for this Island community but it is also a realistic alternative to petrol combustion engines for most rural and urban centres throughout the country.”