The Victorian government has proposed a range of different routes and suppliers as it begins planning its zero-emissions bus rollout program
The Victorian government is looking to hear from the state’s bus and coach operators as it begins to work on its zero-emissions bus rollout map.
The government has moved one step closer to a more sustainable bus fleet by launching a new consultation paper to industry to help support the zero-emissions transition.
As mandated by the state government, all new public transport buses purchased from 2025 onwards will be zero emission as part of the Victorian government’s legislated target of net zero by 2045.
Victorian public transport minister Ben Carroll has launched the consultation paper that lays the groundwork for the transition plan to be released in 2024.
“Tackling emissions on our public transport network is critical to Victoria meeting its commitment of net zero emissions by 2045 and we’re seeking feedback from operators, industry and the wider community as we transition to a diesel-free bus fleet,” Carroll says.
“The zero-emissions bus transition requires significant change and we are working with industry on how we use this opportunity to create a stronger industry, boost local manufacturing and improve customer experience.”
Carroll says Victoria is already leading the way through the government’s $20 million Zero Emission Bus trial delivered hand-in-hand with industry to inform the smooth transition of almost 4,500 diesel buses to zero emissions.
The three-year trial leading up to 2025 involves six operators across Victoria introducing 52 zero emission buses into their fleets – 50 electric and two hydrogen – across Melbourne, Traralgon and Seymour.
The trial is fostering vital local industry partnerships and supporting local jobs –with energy providers and bus manufacturers – which the state government says is critical to achieving an effective transition.
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The trial has provided evidence about performance, depot charging needs, capacity, infrastructure and energy network requirements, environmental outcomes and customer expectations.
The consultation paper highlights outcomes of the trials with industry and invites their contributions how a zero-emission bus transition can slash emissions, improve passenger experiences and create secure jobs in the bus industry.
More than 100 hybrid and around 45 zero emission buses are already operating on public transport routes across Victoria with operators getting positive feedback from passengers enjoying a quieter and smoother ride.
Extra funding was also announced in the 2023-24 Victorian Budget to double the speed of the roll out of zero emission buses as part of new 10-year metropolitan bus contracts.
These contracts cover 30 per cent of the metro network and come up for renewal in 2025. Creating a greener fleet is also part of Victoria’s Bus Plan to develop a modern and reliable network that attracts more passengers.
The consultation paper suggests a range of different route ideas to make the zero-emissions implementation successful, including rapid routes (including bus rapid transit and shuttle networks), connector routes, local/ demand responsive routes and school routes.
To find out more and have your say visit engage.vic.gov.au/ZEBtransition by September 3.