Two fleets of brand-new buses have been introduced in West Berkshire.

The new buses for the jet black route have been operational since December 2, 2024, with features such as high-back seating, USB, USB-C, and wireless charging.

They also have tables, mood lighting, and space for two wheelchair users.

Other features include a glazed staircase, tinted windows, and an air chill system on the upper deck to allow in natural light and help moderate the temperature.

This upgrade is part of a similar initiative by Reading Buses that saw high-spec double-deck buses introduced on the lion 4/X4 route between Wokingham and Bracknell in February 2024.

(Image: Reading Buses)

An improved timetable on the jet black 1 route was also implemented in April 2024.

Robert Williams, Reading Buses CEO, said: "We are delighted to be able to put these new buses into service on the jet black 1.

"They represent a step-change in comfort for our customers and the culmination of our significant investment in our longer distance routes."

Councillor John Ennis said: "I am very pleased to see the launch of two fleets of brand new buses and an upgrade of buses travelling through West Berkshire.

"I welcome the opportunity for residents in West Berkshire to use the new and upgraded buses and to increase bus use in the West Berkshire and Reading areas.

"It is good to see partnership working between West Berkshire and Reading in the promotion of using buses."

A week after the introduction of the double-deckers, Reading Buses' sister company, Newbury & District, will launch a new fleet of single-deckers covering the entire Newbury network.

This includes local routes to Thatcham, Pigeons Farm, Speen, Greenham, and the Racecourse, as well as rural routes to Hungerford, Lambourn, and the Ilsleys.

The single-deck buses have high-back seats with USB A and C charging, skylights, wood effect flooring, and an enhanced next-stop announcement system.

The new buses were ordered after the successful renewal of a contract with West Berkshire Council to provide services to more rural areas.

Mr Williams said: "The new buses for Newbury & District are head and shoulders above the current buses and customers will instantly see, and feel, the difference when travelling on board.

"These buses are custom-built for Newbury, covering busy town routes and deeply rural areas interchangeably, and will boast a brand new look as well – to bring a more polished and striking look to the network."

The new Newbury & District buses will be operational from December 9, 2024.

All of the buses have been built in Britain by Alexander Dennis in a combined £4m investment from Reading Buses.