Overview
- Mayor Kim McGuinness signed two partnership agreements in Tokyo with Hitachi and the Port of Tyne to advance clean transport projects in the region.
- One agreement aims to convert the local bus fleet to zero emissions within a decade using Hitachi technology, charging solutions and AI monitoring via its HMAX platform.
- A second agreement begins work on a Smart Port and a dedicated clean e‑fuels hub at the Port of Tyne to reduce maritime emissions and modernise operations.
- Leaders say the initiatives could support up to 200 jobs as the North East builds its clean‑energy sector and leverages its AI Growth Zone designation.
- The accords establish a framework for collaboration and feasibility studies, with investment, procurement and delivery timetables still to be set.