The first electric zero-emission bus will soon be in service in north Kent.

It will be one of 28 green vehicles operating on the Fastrack network in Dartford and Gravesham by April next year, replacing diesel engines.

Kent County Council (KCC) hopes the fleet will save 1,300 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

KCC says a further five electric buses will be introduced for the upcoming Dover Fastrack network.

Work will start at the end of August at Gravesend bus station and Dartford Acacia Hall to install the electric vehicle charging points to power the buses.

KCC has signed a 15-year contract with Go-Ahead London for the operation of Fastrack in Dartford and Gravesham which it says will provide people with a “reliable and greener travel option, connecting communities and helping to keep Kent moving”.

KCC’s Cabinet member for Highways and Transport Neil Baker said: “I am delighted that we have received our very first electric bus for Kent.

“This marks a significant milestone and an exciting time for users of our Kent Thameside Fastrack service as we upgrade our fleet to new electric models.

“The investment is an indication of our commitment to Fastrack and better air quality for Kent’s residents. I am looking forward to seeing them in operation.”

Shane Hymers, KCC Fastrack development manager, said the buses’ design was led by customers and drivers.

He added: “The buses include wireless charging docks for smart phones, ambient lighting and even railway-style tables complete with coffee cup holders.

“We’ve also added an additional wheelchair bay to make sure the buses are fully accessible for all residents.”

A spokesperson for Dartford council said: “Fastrack has had a tremendous impact since it arrived in Dartford.

“Reliable public transport is essential as the borough continues to grow and providing a fleet of sustainable, environmentally-conscious buses for people to get around is the next step in Fastrack’s success story.”

Isobel Hedley Jones, Fastrack project manager, said: “Go-Ahead is delighted to be delivering this pioneering zero-emission fleet in partnership with KCC the manufacturer, Irizar.

“This collaboration will result in the first zero-emission buses ever to operate in Kent.”