Metro Tasmania announces operational trials for zero-emission buses

Credit: Metro Tasmania

Metro Tasmania has announced the appointment of three companies to supply equipment for operational trials of zero-emission bus (ZEB) technologies in the state. The contracts have been awarded after a rigorous selection process conducted in 2022.

Foton Mobility Distribution Pty Ltd has been contracted to provide and maintain three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEB) in Hobart. These buses will run on various Metro routes for a duration of three years, starting from mid-2024. FCEBs are powered by electric motors that utilise hydrogen gas as fuel. The hydrogen is converted into electricity through a fuel cell on-board the buses. To re-fuel the FCEBs, a hydrogen re-fuelling station will be installed at Metro’s Mornington satellite yard.

H2H Energy Pty Ltd has been selected to supply and maintain a hydrogen re-fuelling station at Metro’s Mornington yard in Hobart. This station will support the re-fuelling needs of the FCEBs during their operational trials.

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Finally, Custom Bus Group Pty Ltd will provide and maintain three battery electric buses (BEB) and the associated battery chargers for Metro’s services in Launceston. The BEBs, which operate using electric motors and on-board batteries, will serve the Launceston network for two years, commencing in the last quarter of 2023. Special chargers will be installed at Metro’s Launceston depot to re-charge the buses using mains power.

The operational trials of these ZEB technologies will offer Metro Tasmania valuable insights and operational experience. The information gathered from the trials will play a crucial role in shaping Metro’s future transition to a zero-emission bus fleet. By exploring different zero-emission options, Metro Tasmania aims to contribute to sustainable and environmentally friendly public transportation in the region.