20 February 2023

Today Newcastle Transport begins and exciting journey of energy transition with the first Zero Emission Bus (ZEB) hitting the road.

Minster for Transport and Roads, David Elliott said this was the first permanent electric bus introduced in Regional and Outer Metropolitan NSW, supporting Transport for NSW’s energy transition.

“The NSW Government is committed to transitioning its diesel buses to zero emission technology and this is only the start for Regional and Outer Metropolitan NSW,” Mr Elliott said.

“Electric buses will deliver a more sustainable transport option for the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie communities and will further encourage people to make the switch to public transport.”  Keolis Downer Hunter General Manager, Emmanuel Genlot, said it was great to see zero emission technology on the road today in Newcastle.

“You will see the zero emission bus looks very similar to the buses already on the road, but customers and the community will notice some differences,” Mr Genlot said.

“Customers will notice a quieter and smoother ride, while the community will benefit from reduced emissions and better air quality,

“With zero emission buses now on Newcastle and Lake Macquarie roads, it will further promote the benefits of public transport and give Novocastrians another reason to leave the car at home and get onboard.”

“Keolis Downer is proud to partner with Transport for New South Wales to transition Newcastle to a zero emission public transport future.”

Keolis Downer Hunter Bus Operator, Paul Picton said it was great to see new technology hit the transport industry.

“Customers will enjoy the difference on board the zero emission bus, in particular a more comfortable ride, due to the absence of engine and exhaust noise.”

Newcastle Transport will launch another two zero emission buses in the coming weeks.

MEDIA ENQUIRES

Carmen Rotolo

Carmen.Rotolo@keolisdowner.com.au

0423 326 193