Heavy-duty vehicles contribute a disproportionately high share of greenhouse gas emissions compared to their overall share of Scotland’s road transport fleet.

Recognising the challenges that smaller operators face in planning fleet decarbonisation and accessing funding, Transport Scotland launched the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Market Transition Scheme. This initiative was designed to support SME bus and coach operators in exploring zero-emission options and developing strong applications for capital funding schemes.

Urban Foresight worked with eight clients to develop eleven eligible projects so that they could access the funding, providing tailored, hands-on support. We then delivered these bespoke projects, structured around two key delivery streams:

• Technical assessments to identify the most suitable zero-emission technologies, supported by feasibility studies and cost modelling.
• Facilitating strategic partnerships between operators, manufacturers, energy providers, local authorities, and finance partners to develop scalable and innovative business models.

This dual approach ensured every operator received customised support, rooted in operational realities and long-term sustainability.

Expert collaboration and innovation

Our technical assessments were tailored to each client and included:

• Technology selection and fleet transition planning
• Operational and financial feasibility analysis
• Business model development tailored to SME needs

We also explored innovative procurement and infrastructure models, including:

• Local authority-led bus hire schemes to support rural operators
• Operator collectives for joint vehicle purchasing and shared refuelling infrastructure
• A “bus-as-a-service” model designed for smaller fleets
• The feasibility of a Scottish centre of excellence to support SMEs and repower legacy diesel vehicles

Delivering impact at scale

Our work helped clients prepare robust, evidence-based applications that unlocked significant investment in zero-emission transport for operators often underserved by traditional funding pathways. The results speak to the scale and significance of this work:

• A consortium led by our finance partner Zenobe secured £136 million, bringing 252 zero-emission buses and coaches to Scotland’s roads. This was one of the largest funding awards made by Transport Scotland.
• Shuttle Buses received £523,740 to purchase four electric buses, marking a major milestone in their decarbonisation journey.

Building on proven expertise

We have a proven track record of helping operators secure funding, with successful applications unlocking millions of pounds for SMEs and consortiums. Our expertise ensures clients build strong, evidence-based cases that win investment.

Urban Foresight also brings in-depth knowledge of government funding schemes, having worked directly with Transport Scotland to design and deliver major EV and zero-emission programmes. This insight means we know exactly how schemes are structured, assessed, and awarded,  and how to position bids for success.

Alongside funding expertise, we have extensive experience in fleet decarbonisation. From supporting Dundee City and Newcastle Councils to helping smaller operators transition to zero-emission vehicles, we deliver practical strategies that turn funding into real-world impact.

If you’re planning your own fleet transition or seeking expert support in HGV analysis, infrastructure planning, or funding strategy, contact us at hello@urbanforesight.com.