Busways is continuing its trend of testing zero-emissions buses as it receives more electric models throughout NSW
NSW operator Busways is conducting its first test of a European model zero-emissions bus (ZEB) in Coffs Harbour from this week and is also testing a Nexport ZE–B125 in Penrith.
The testing of the Volvo and Nexport vehicles follow Busways’ procurement of the Australian made Custom Denning Element vehicles for Western Sydney in 2021 and 2022 and an earlier Busways trial of a Yutong E12 model in Coffs Harbour in 2021.
“It is an important part of Busways’ zero-emissions fleet transition strategy to test and benchmark different makes and models in Australian conditions, as electric bus technology is constantly evolving,” Busways Chief Operating Officer Chris Wolf says.
“We are looking to evaluate different buses to assess which deliver a comfortable and reliable service whilst also offering good value for money over the whole life of the asset.”
Busways zero-emissions bus and innovation manager Joe Kotevich says that each bus has the ability to capture a wide range of data to help with assessing these factors.
“In addition to electricity consumption, we assess time taken to charge, demand from air conditioning, power regenerated through braking and more,” Kotevich says.
“It is important to look at components such as suspension, doors, driveline, air conditioning, manufacturer support and additional training needed for drivers or maintenance teams.”
In Coffs Harbour, Kotevich says Busways was keen to see how a European engineered electric bus compares to other models in a regional environment.
“We will be testing the bus in summer conditions when higher air-con demand impacts power consumption,” Kotevich says.
“We’ll also see how it manages the terrain in and around the region, to help inform us how electric buses will integrate with the existing regional fleet as we transition to zero emission public transport.”
RELATED ARTICLE: NSW trial pits hydrogen against battery electric bus technology
Regional Transport and Roads Minister Sam Farraway says the NSW government is committed to transitioning its bus fleet to zero-emission technology as part of its strategy to deliver more energy efficient transport options.
“It’s great to see local regional manufacturers participating in this test to deliver more sustainable buses for the community. The launch of this test is exciting because it comes as bus and coach operators are separately being invited to express interest in the NSW government’s $25 million Regional zero-emissions bus trials,” Farraway says.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh says it was exciting to see Coffs Harbour as a testing ground for new technology.
“These kinds of tests help us learn more about what fit electric buses could have in the regions, particularly where longer distance routes are more common than in metro areas. Feedback from operators like Busways who run ZEBs in metropolitan areas is critical to landing the right technological solutions for the regions,” Singh says.
“We’re going to see this electric bus operate on different routes and school services Monday to Friday, providing many Busways drivers with important electric bus education.“
Busways says zero-emissions buses (even those powered from the grid) have lower energy consumption than traditional diesel buses, resulting in a quieter, smoother experience for customers and better air quality for the community.