Tasmania is embarking on a journey towards zero-emission public transport, with the official launch of a two-year battery electric bus trial in Launceston today.
Four new “highly visible” Metro buses, featuring an electric motor and charged by renewable mains power, have hit the streets of Launceston.
Built by Australian manufacturer Custom Denning, the State Government say the buses are an advancement of models currently operating in New South Wales and Victoria.
The charging infrastructure for the buses has been set up by Cromarty, a Launceston-based company, at Metro’s Launceston depot.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said the new electric buses in Launceston are an important way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the state.
“Anything that we can do to reduce emissions is an important step to take,” he said.
Hobart is set to experience a similar advancement in mid-2024 with the introduction of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses for a three-year trial.
Clean Energy Tasmania have “cautiously welcomed” the trial, with Chair Ian Jones saying it’s an important step forward.
“What is clear is that we need more renewable energy supply to keep up with increasing demand,” Jones said, calling on the State Government to outline a “clear plan” for new renewable generation.
The State Government committed $6 million for the battery electric bus trial, while the Tasmanian Renewable Hydrogen Industry Development Funding Program is funding $11.3 million for Hobart’s fuel cell electric bus trial.
In 2022, private operator SkyBus launched two fully electric buses in Hobart for their passenger connection service between Hobart Airport and the city, marking the first of its kind in the state.
