The Department of Transport and Main Roads has announced that 30 new electric buses are in operation, and that Australia’s first 100 per cent electric bus depot is open.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey said the initiatives supported a Government commitment to make every new bus in South-East Queensland a zero- emissions vehicle from 2025.
“That commitment expands to our regions between 2025 and 2030,” Mr Bailey said.
“Electric buses are better for the environment and mean people will be breathing in fresher, cleaner air when they are walking around,” he said.
Gold Coast-based Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said she was excited to see her city become home to Australia’s first all-electric bus depot.
“The Currumbin depot will be powered completely by renewable energy, including a 56kW solar panel array,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Transport is the second-biggest emitter in Queensland, but is rapidly evolving to embrace zero-emissions technology,” she said.
The Minister said the depot would eventually house 14 electric buses, some of which would service the 777-route connecting the Gold Coast Airport in Coolangatta with the heart of the city.
“It means this will be the first impression tourists have when they touch down in Queensland,” she said.
“I’m sure customers across Queensland will enjoy riding on the new buses knowing that the project is playing an important role in the future of public transport in this State,” Ms Scanlon said.
