Metro Tasmania Zero Emissions Buses
"Greater use of these bus technologies, in combination with renewable electricity supply, will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector."
Marcus McKay, Metro Tasmania
Petrol and diesel from cars, freight, and buses are the biggest contributors to climate pollution locally. Transitioning to all electric is vital to a zero emissions Hobart.
Metro Tasmania has been trialling the electric and hydrogen buses across its fleet state-wide. Just like an electric car, electric buses are powered by an electric motor with energy from on-board batteries. Hydrogen buses use hydrogen generated through electrolysis of water, run through a fuel-cell as the primary energy source.
When powered through renewable energy from the sun or grid, these buses represent a big step towards a zero emissions Hobart.
Metro Tasmania is currently:
- trialling four electric buses in its Launceston network over two years
- trialling three hydrogen buses in its Hobart network over two years.
These trials have resulted in:
- approximately 137 000 km travelled by the electric buses, saving around 1.1 kg of CO2-e per kilometre travelled, and approximately 79 000 km travelled by the hydrogen buses
- positive sentiments and greater intention for use of zero emissions buses by the community, and more positive ride experiences for passengers and drivers (by survey)
- good performance on hilly terrain across all electric and hydrogen.
Metro Tasmania's trial is providing valuable information and learnings to inform a future transition to zero emission bus technologies. It's demonstrating the opportunities for public transport sector emissions reduction. Metro will be undertaking further analysis at the end of the trail to inform Metro's future transition pathway to zero emission buses.
Metro Tasmania is helping to create a more climate ready Hobart through the electrification of the city's public transport. Not only will this move us towards a zero emissions Hobart through direct emissions reductions, these buses may encourage the community to make greater use of public transport in general. This helps us reduce air pollution, traffic congestions and health issues.
Metro Tasmania is a state-owned bus operator, delivering public transport in Hobart, Launceston, and Burnie.
Learn more:
Metro Tasmania
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