Transport Canberra’s long awaited trial of alternative energy buses will commence next week.
ACT Transport Minister Meegan Fitzharris today revealed the two buses which will participate in the trial, a fully-electric BYD Toro supplied by Carbridge and a Volvo B5RLEH parallel diesel hybrid.
These buses will be based at Tuggeranong Depot but will be used on routes across all areas of Canberra.
“The ACT Government is committed to looking at new and innovative ways to improve our public transport system to manage Canberra’s growth, reduce congestion and protect our liveability,” Minister Fitzharris said.
“These buses are another example of the ACT Government’s forward thinking in regards to both public transport and minimising human impact on the environment.”
“Recent improvements in technology mean electric and hybrid buses are becoming more economical and operationally viable, which is why we believe it is the right time to run this trial.”
The trial will continue until the end of 2018, with the results helping the Government decide whether such buses will be considered for purchase in the future.
“If electric or electric-hybrid buses are found suitable following the trial, Transport Canberra will consider alternative fuel buses as part of the broader fleet replacement options,” Ms Fitzharris said earlier this month.
The trial was originally intended to commence in January 2017 with three AVASS Matilda electric buses, however the contract with the Avalon-based manufacturer was terminated when the buses were unable to be supplied on time.
A second BYD Toro is due to be delivered by December 2017.
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This page was last updated on 13 August 2022
