A convoy of new buses is set to drive the Sunshine Coast’s low emissions future.
Five electric public buses will soon hit the streets of the region, to create greener and cleaner travel.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said their presence would build on the State Government’s recently-released Zero Emissions Vehicle strategy.
“We’ve made a commitment that every new bus in South-East Queensland would be zero emission from 2025, so to see it happening now is a fantastic achievement,” he said.
“That commitment expands to our regions between 2025 and 2030.”
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said the buses would play an important role in the community.
“Having emissions free buses here on the Coast is fantastic not only for our local environment, but for all of Queensland,” he said.
“Transport is the second biggest emitter in Queensland but is rapidly evolving to embrace zero emissions technology.
“Our research shows each electric bus could save as much as 1000 tonnes of greenhouse gases over its lifespan and deliver many community benefits with less noise and harmful air pollution.”
Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said the buses were a welcome addition to the region’s public transport network.
“Electric buses are better for the environment and mean people will be breathing in fresher, cleaner air when they are walking around,” he said.
“We’ve had some electric buses in other parts of SEQ since April last year, so to now see them arriving on the Sunshine Coast is fantastic news.
“Queensland is seizing the opportunities to act on climate change, create jobs and set Queensland in a nation-leading position for the future.
“I’m sure customers across the Coast will enjoy riding on the new buses knowing that the project is playing an important role in the future of public transport in this state.”
Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our free daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email. See SUBSCRIBE at the top of this article.
Kinetic Co-CEO Adam Begg said the bus network was excited to partner with TransLink to enhance the public transport experience.
“This year alone we’ll be introducing 20 zero emission buses to Queensland roads across Cairns, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast,” he said.
“We’re proud to bring to the table our experience operating zero emissions buses in other major cities including in Auckland, Christchurch and soon in Melbourne.”
