As reported exclusively on Truck and Bus News last week, Transit Systems will today start a trial of four new electric buses in Sydney’s inner west or what is known as Transport for NSW’s Region 6 Network.
The first bus on the trial is a Gemilang bodied BYD chassis using a 328kW battery pack using around 80kW per with a regenerative braking system that returns around 30-40 per cent of its battery capacity depending on traffic conditions.
It is understood that the trial will use four Gemilang BYDs and these will be joined by a Yutong E12 electric route bus which will join the trial by the end of July or early in August. The Yutong E12 has been on trial with Premier Motor Group on a Kiama to Bomaderry route for the past six months.
Transit Systems CEO Clint Feuerherdt commended Transport for NSW on its vision to explore, create and deliver a more sustainable transport network.
“We are proud to work alongside Transport for NSW to achieve the vision to deliver a more sustainable public transport solution and look forward to welcoming our first customers on-board for a quieter and greener commute.”
Feuerherdt added that Transit Systems is committed to exploring a range of new technologies.
“Public transport works best as a dynamic network – connecting people from A to B via the most convenient method for them. Be it electric, hydrogen, on demand or traditional bus services, we’ll continue to invest in new technologies and ideas to ensure we are delivering the most convenient, reliable and cost effective services to commuters,” he said.
The buses will operate from the former NSW Transport Leichardt depot that Transit Systems now operates under its arrangements with Transport for NSW on routes chosen for their close proximity to the Leichhardt Depot, allowing performance to be closely monitored during the trial:
The buses will operate on Route 389 from Bondi Junction to Pyrmont, Route 431 from Glebe Point to Martin Place, Route 433 from Balmain to Railway Square, Route 447 from a loop service from Lilyfield to Leichhardt Marketplace and Route 470 – Lilyfield to Martin Place.
ViriCity telematics has been installed which allows the operator to remotely monitor real-time and historical data to assist in all aspects of the electric bus operation.
The trial buses all feature next stop systems, which provide audio and visual route and location information for customers. The next stop systems will be fitted and progressively rolled out to all new buses in the Transit Systems Region 6 fleet.
