Irish tourism company Paddywagon has reportedly confirmed that it plans to order six electric busses early next year.
The company, which was founded by Cathal O'Connell in 1998, added that it plans to purchase an additional six by the end of 2020.
According to The Irish Independent, O'Connell revealed that the firm hopes to convert its entire fleet to renewable energy in the next five years.
"There will be an immediate order of six electric buses in the new year, increasing to 12 by the end of next year, with the goal of having all of our buses electric in four years as technology improves," O'Connell said.
Higher Costs
O'Connell made the announcement in the group's latest directors' report, which revealed that high operating costs have led to a pre-tax profits decrease of 40% in the 12 months to October.
Despite this, the company carried more than a quarter of a million visitors last year, resulting in a 10% increase in sales.
O'Connell said that he believes that "word of mouth has led to a significant increase in the number of agents".
The group paid out approximately €1.2 million for new assets last year.
Staff costs also increased by 13.5% to over €3 million as the company grew.
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Aidan O'Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
