The first of 60-brand new electric buses will start moving passengers around Adelaide from next week, promising commuters a cleaner, smoother and more sustainable ride.
The two new buses are being delivered by supplier Scania, with the remainder of the fleet expected to be operating by mid-2026.
The new fleet, which will replace ageing diesel buses, will remove more than 4500 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere each year, the equivalent output of around 1500 homes.
This will continue to improve as the State Government works towards its target of achieving net zero by 2050.
The electric buses, which will enhance passenger comfort by reducing noise and pollution, will travel on the same routes as the current diesel buses.
Each vehicle will be able to seat 43 passengers and travel approximately 350km on a single charge.
In preparation for the fleet’s arrival, Morphettville depot is amping up its charging capacity with new charging bays being installed.
As well as being better for the environment, the new b
uses will also incorporate improved safety features such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.
The software will support drivers in maintaining lane position, controlling speed and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. All 60 electric buses will come fitted with full protective driver security screens.
As of September 2022, procurement of new diesel-only buses ceased and all new vehicles are now either diesel-electric hybrids or battery electric.
The Adelaide Metro rail network has already partially achieved zero emission, with both the Gawler and Seaford/Flinders rail lines being electrified. There are currently 34 electric and 50 hybrid-diesel railcars in operation.
Scania Manager Jamie Atkinson said that the Department for Infrastructure and Transport and Scania had long been committed to driving the shift towards a sustainable transport solution for route buses in South Australia.
"When in service, fully electric buses are all but silent in operation 100 per cent of the time, with no tailpipe emissions at all," Mr Atkinson said.
"When powered by electricity produced from renewable sources in South Australia, they deliver public transport that is cleaner and greener than ever. This technology is a win for commuters and the environment."
