Three organisations are joining forces to road-test an electric bus in the region… with hopes of providing a long-term service.
Leading Hunter transport operator Port Stephens Coaches is uniting with Foton Mobility Distribution (FMD) and the University of Newcastle (UoN) to administer a short trial for the environmentally-friendly vehicle.
The pilot, to be run over approximately four weeks – concluding on 4 August, will test the suitability of the Battery Electric City Bus (BEV) for regular scheduled passenger services between the CBD and the UoN’s Callaghan Campus.
The shuttle is expected to be available, for pick-up and drop-off, for uni staff and students.
UoN’s director of infrastructure facilities and services Steve Johnston admitted the trial was an opportunity to engage with industry who have a shared vision for innovative and sustainable operations.
“Electric vehicles are an essential step towards building more sustainable societies.
“So, we are fortunate to participate in this to demonstrate that ethically-minded technology can meet the demands of our communities today.
“During the trial period, the BEV will replace one of the two hybrid shuttles we offer as part of our inter-Campus NUspace Shuttle that runs between the Newcastle CBD and Callaghan Campus.
“It also adds to our ongoing commitment for sustainable transport options for staff and students.”
FMD heavy vehicle sales manager Iain Dorward said the company was “extremely excited” to partner with the other two parties.
“The trial will help us determine the requirements and best practices to successfully run the University Shuttle Bus while moving forward towards a common net zero goal,” he explained.
“We are equally-pleased the UoN is involved and leading the way in the education sector towards the goal of CO2 neutrality.
“It’s a privilege to be a part of this trial and to demonstrate BEV technology can be successful outside of the capital cities.”
The FMD 12.5m low-floor Battery Electric City Bus has the potential to save up to 108kg of CO2 per 100km driven, or approximately 104,000kg of CO2 entering the atmosphere per annum, equivalent to 19 Sydney-to-Melbourne passenger jet flights or removing three heavy duty diesel trucks off our roads for a year.
The BEV, which seats 44 passengers, runs on a world’s best CATL power battery, with a DANA motor producing peak power of 245kw, and comes with a five-year 400,000km warranty, and eight-year 640,000km warranty on the battery, which can achieve full charge within 90 minutes using a 240kw DC fast charger.
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