The New South Wales government has announced the growth of its electric bus fleet in Sydney is set to accelerate with the addition of 151 new battery electric buses. The latest order brings the total number of new buses purchased since March 2023 to 921, firmly placing NSW on the path to a zero-emissions future.
The buses will be built locally, with manufacturers such as Custom Denning in St Marys part of some of the orders. Transport for NSW says each vehicle will contribute to the conversion of key depots at Leichhardt and Kingsgrove, ensuring they are ready to host a sustainable fleet for decades to come.
Over the long term, the Zero Emission Buses program is set to transform the state’s 8,000-plus diesel and gas buses into battery-powered vehicles. Eleven depots across Sydney are already being adapted to support the electric bus fleet in Sydney, with a purpose-built electric depot under construction at Macquarie Park.
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NSW transport minister John Graham says this staged investment is crucial for both sustainability and commuter experience.
“This latest investment in new buses has us on an express route to 1,000 new buses since Labor came to government,” Graham says.
He adds that the transition is designed to benefit both passengers and the environment.
“The build-up of zero-emission buses is happening in a staged and sustainable way, with the obvious benefits for the environment and air quality complemented by enhanced passenger comfort levels on these quieter, smoother buses,” he says.
More than 220 battery electric buses are already in operation across Greater Sydney, including three in Newcastle. By 2028, it is anticipated that around 1,700 vehicles will be serving commuters as part of the expanding electric bus fleet in Sydney.
Graham highlights that the government’s focus is on practical delivery.
“Getting more buses on the road in a timely manner is our approach,” Graham says.
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