Wrightbus, a bus manufacturer based in Ballymena, Co Antrim, has finalized a finance deal worth £150m with HSBC UK to boost production capabilities for its global market expansion. The funding will be utilized to develop new technologies, broaden the product offering, and support the company's divisions, such as Rightech and NewPower. NewPower specializes in converting diesel buses to electric vehicles, while Rightech sells various battery-electric vehicles. The investment will also facilitate the acceleration of production at Wrightbus factories in Northern Ireland and Malaysia. CEO Jean-Marc Gales emphasized the significance of the deal in advancing growth and investing in zero-emission public transport, including electric and hydrogen-powered buses. The company, rescued from administration in 2019 by entrepreneur Jo Bamford, now operates in Northern Ireland, England, China, and south-east Asia. With a workforce of 2,300 employees producing 1,200 buses annually, Wrightbus plays a pivotal role in supporting 7,500 jobs in the wider supply chain. The company's focus on decarbonizing public transport aligns with its commitment to providing cleaner and greener vehicles to UK bus operators and expanding internationally, particularly targeting the Asia Pacific market. The partnership with HSBC UK and HYCAP reflects a milestone for Wrightbus, showcasing the firm's dedication to sustainable manufacturing and its ambition to lead the way in the zero-emission vehicle sector.