Queensland tourism transport operator Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters has announced a groundbreaking initiative as it introduces 12 cutting-edge battery electric buses into its fleet this month.
The move is aimed at revolutionising sustainable transport in tourism, with Tropic Wings, part of the CaPTA Group, leading the way.
The project is estimated to cost $10.2 million, with $4.75 million secured through funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
As the recent silver award recipient for Major Tour & Transport Operator at the 2023 Queensland Tourism Awards, Tropic Wings is now focusing on becoming a trailblazer in sustainable transport within the Australian tourism industry by operating the first 100 per cent electric bus in the sector.
The ARENA funding came as part of its Driving the Nation Program that looks to accelerate the adoption of clean and sustainable transport solutions around Australia.
CaPTA Systems & Projects Director Michael Woodward says the entire CaPTA Group believes in the potential of the region and is dedicated to enhancing the tourism experience while preserving our natural treasures.
“We take immense pride in being a family-owned business deeply rooted in tourism. Our confidence in the region and commitment to it are at the heart of our mission,” Woodward says.
Tropic Wings General Manager Colin Anderson says the acquisition of the 12 electric vehicles represented a significant step towards their goal of becoming 80 per cent electric by 2028.
“This achievement positions us as a leader in the tourism industry, being the sole company to operate 100 per cent electric vehicles for tourism and charters,” Anderson says.
“Such a milestone perfectly aligns with our vision of being a responsible tour operator, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the environment and local communities.”
ARENA CEO Darren Miller says the use of electric buses in the tourism sector at this scale is an Australian first.
“ARENA is glad to see companies like Tropic Wings taking the lead and showing how smaller players can play their part in transitioning the nation’s bus fleets,” Miller says.
“With roughly 100,000 buses in Australia, the scale of the challenge is enormous. For smaller family-owned businesses, the barriers are even greater. This is what the Driving the Nation fund is for, supporting companies that are finding solutions and paving the way for zero-emissions vehicles on our roads.”
Through collaborative efforts with esteemed industry experts including Energy Australia, Electric Vehicle Council and Vehicles Dealers International (VDI), the Australian distributor of Yutong buses and coaches, the project encompasses a comprehensive plan, including the installation of 11 charging stations and the development of an innovative Island Facility battery storage system.
These upgrades will be complemented by crucial enhancements to key infrastructure and substantial investments in research and development across two strategic sites – at the Tropic Wings Depot in Cairns and Rainforestation Nature Park in Kuranda.
Tropic Wings is committed to leading eco-friendly practices in tourism by transitioning a substantial part of its fleet to BEVs, reducing its carbon footprint and fostering environmental preservation.
Additionally, this initiative will serve as a blueprint for other tour operators, facilitating their transition to electric vehicles and promoting sustainable tourism.