Transport Canberra has partnered with the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) in a training program to help its bus mechanics prepare for a new fleet of zero-emissions buses.
Announced by the Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel, diesel bus mechanics are to gain the skills and knowledge needed to work with new electric models.
“The tailored training program has been developed in partnership between Transport Canberra and the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT),” Mr Steel said.
“The first six mechanics will undertake the training next week at the CIT Campus at Fyshwick, with an initial two-day course coupled with an online pre-learning package,” he said.
“Staff will gain essential skills required to transition from working with diesel buses to electric equivalents.”
Mr Steel said mechanics would learn how to depower and reinitialise battery electric vehicles; maintain chargeable energy storage systems; test electric motors; and maintenance of an all-electric fleet.
The Minister said product specific training for Transport Canberra technicians would also be provided to compliment the CIT training.
“From next year, all ACT Government mechanics and workshop staff will be trained to work with electric vehicles as a priority,” he said.
“Once this team is skilled up, electric vehicle safety and awareness training will be offered to Transport Officers and other key bus depot staff by mid-2022.”
Mr Steel said the first zero emissions buses were expected to enter Canberra’s fleet from 2022.
