Kinetic collaborates with NSW government for zero-emission bus trial

Credit: Kinetic

Kinetic has announced it partnership with the New South Wales (NSW) government to introduce two zero-emission buses in the Tweed Coast region. The initiative, unveiled by Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW), marks a $25 million investment to operate battery electric buses on school routes in the Tweed and Armidale areas, contributing to the state’s transition to zero-emissions public transport.

The partnership comes as Kinetic, known as Australasia’s largest operator of zero-emission buses, expands its presence in northern New South Wales. The acquisition of Murwillumbah Bus Company, Parsons Bus Company and Singh’s Bus Company in Murwillumbah reinforces Kinetic’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said: “Zero-emission buses (ZEB) emit no harmful exhaust fumes, improving air quality. The NSW government has committed $25 million towards this project and the trials are an important step in our plans to transition the state’s fleet of 8000-plus diesel and gas buses to zero emissions technology by 2047.”

During the trial period, students from 17 primary and high schools in the Tweed region will have the opportunity to experience the quieter and smoother rides provided by electric buses. Community feedback will be solicited to ensure the effectiveness and acceptance of battery electric buses in the region.

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The two zero-emission buses will operate from Kinetic’s Tweed Heads depot, which will undergo necessary electrification and charging infrastructure upgrades. This depot, located near Kinetic’s Currumbin depot, has been a pioneer in Australia’s transition to electric buses, currently powering 10 zero-emission buses on the Gold Coast.

Martin Hall, Kinetic’s Executive General Manager for South East Queensland and Tweed, said: “We know passengers love travelling on electric vehicles and each ZEB on the road replaces a diesel one, having an immediate benefit to the environment, community and passengers. These vehicles will add to 10 electric buses operating across the border on the Gold Coast and will be a welcome complement to our local fleet giving people another reason to choose public transport over personal car travel.”

The introduction of zero-emission buses in the Tweed Coast region reflects Kinetic’s broader sustainability priorities, including targeting a 100% zero-emission bus fleet by 2035 and promoting gender balance by 2030.