The UK bus and coach sector is experiencing a powerful resurgence, with new vehicle registrations reaching their highest level in 17 years. Overall, registrations of buses, coaches and minibuses grew 10.4% in 2025 to reach 9,259 units, delivering the best performance since 2008, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Whilst the record year ended with a decline of 28% in the fourth quarter, driven by a halving of minibus registrations, this was not enough to detract from a market that remains in robust health, as operators across the country continued to invest in the latest generation PSVs.
The bus and coach sector also retained its position as the UK’s most rapidly decarbonising road segment, overtaking the progress made by light vehicles and HGVs. Zero emission vehicle uptake rose 62% in 2025 to 2,523 units, representing 27% of all new public transport vehicles joining the road.
This performance positions the UK as Europe’s largest zero emission bus market by a significant margin. The SMMT claims that this is testament to sustained industry innovation and commitment as well as substantial government incentives such as the Zero Emission Bus Regional Areas (ZEBRA) fund, which is helping accelerate the transition to cleaner public transport.
Between January and September 2025, the UK registered 1,866 battery-electric buses, representing over 23% of total registrations and significantly outperforming other major European markets. Across the wider European region (including the UK), electric bus registrations grew by over 50% year-on-year in 2025, reinforcing the continent-wide shift toward electrified public transport.
Despite the impressive growth, challenges remain. High upfront vehicle costs, infrastructure investment, and operational reliability still influence adoption rates. However, innovative financing models and large-scale infrastructure investment are helping to address these barriers and unlock further expansion.
Commenting on the latest bus and coach statistics, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:
“Strong growth in Britain’s bus, coach and minibus market is clear evidence of an industry committed to cleaner, reliable and accessible transportation for all. The substantial increase in the uptake of zero emission vehicles has been enabled by significant manufacturer investment and targeted government schemes, but momentum must be maintained. Upgrading bus fleets can be complex and costly, challenges that industry and government must address together so Britain can maintain its leadership in green public transport and accelerate our journey towards Net Zero.”
John Dwight, Sales Director of Imperial Engineering commented:
“Having supported the UK bus and coach industry for over 60 years, we are pleased to see the bus and coach sector continue its resurgence, as well as continuing to lead Europe in the drive towards electrification. We look forward with optimism as operators continue their transformation journey to zero emission fleets.
Alongside parts supply which supports bus and coach operators across the UK, Imperial Engineering assists customers in identifying the correct parts for their vehicles, as well as providing technical support and training, in partnership with its manufacturer partners.
