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Volvo completes local milestone delivery of electric buses

A collective effort has helped deliver a new wave of Volvo electric buses to a popular Queensland operator

Throughout February and August this year, Volvo Bus Australia’s latest range of Volvo BZL electric buses was introduced to its home state when it completed the delivery of 17 models to Transdev Queensland.

Following an order placed by Transdev in 2022, Volvo went to work to ensure the BZL Electrics were ready to complete more sustainable runs in Queensland.

“This milestone delivery of 17 Volvo BZL Electric buses to Transdev is a testament to the strong partnership between our organisations,” Volvo Bus Australia general manager Mitch Peden told ABC.

“This achievement highlights the ongoing commitment to providing sustainable transport solutions for the south-east Queensland community.”

The decision from Transdev’s perspective to go with 17 new Volvo BZL Electric buses came after the operator chose to electrify its Capalaba depot, significantly investing in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly public transport system.

The process required extensive infrastructure work as Transdev dedicated its resources to reducing its carbon footprint.

Once the depot was ready to receive buses, Volvo took a personal approach. Volvo’s David Woodward delivered a comprehensive driver training program to Transdev staff in February as a value-add service from the manufacturer.

Provided at no charge to Transdev, the training helped prepare drivers to operate the new electric buses safely and efficiently.

All 17 Volvo BZL Electric buses are now in service, running routes in the Redland Bay and Capalaba areas. Volvo says the buses are already making a positive impact on the local community by reducing emissions and noise pollution while providing more comfortable and sustainable transport for passengers.

“We’re proud to support Transdev’s efforts to electrify its fleet and contribute to a more sustainable future for public transport in Australia,” Peden says.

“This achievement underscores our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions and excellent service to our valued customers.”

As Transdev continues its journey into electromobility, Volvo remains committed to providing outstanding aftersales services. The local dealer network and the Volvo aftersales team will continue to be on hand to support Transdev with any maintenance and service needs, ensuring the ongoing reliability and performance of the electric buses.

Transdev acting managing director Mark Thatcher says the milestone delivery, alongside the electrified depot, represents its shared commitment to sustainability and providing greener transport options in the Redlands.

“We view this as a responsible approach to serving passengers while making a positive impact on the environment in the regions we operate,” Thatcher told ABC.

“The success of this project is a result of excellent collaboration between Translink, Volvo Bus Australia, Volgren and our team here at Transdev.

“These buses, proudly built locally, not only reduce emission and noise pollution, but also support local employment and manufacturing.”

A key part of the deliveries was Volvo’s collaboration with bodybuilding partner Volgren in Brisbane, with the pair creating employment opportunities while supporting the local manufacturing industry.

“The delivery of these electric buses to Transdev Queensland is a very proud moment for Volgren and a testament to the hard work of our Eagle Farm team,” Volgren chief commercial officer Yuri Tessari told ABC.

“Our ongoing collaboration with Volvo has been crucial to navigating Australia’s zero-emissions bus transition.”

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