First Electric Bus Hits Road in Western Sydney

First electric bus hits the road in South Western Sydney region

The following article by Eric Kontos appeared in the Southwest Voice newspaper on 1 February, 2021

An electric bus looks just like any other, but when it hits the road it’s eerily quiet inside. It’s the first thing you notice as a point of difference with diesel powered buses. You can actually have a conversation while it’s moving, as the media did this morning with NSW transport minister Andrew Constance when he launched the very first electric bus for South Western Sydney at Leppington station’s bus interchange. Local bus company Interline, whose representatives joined the minister this morning, will be rolling out a total of 10 new electric buses across the region during 2021. These electric buses can run for up to seven hours on a full charge. The benefits for customers, as Mr Constance pointed out, will come in quieter and cleaner journeys. “These buses are great, and the battery they use is charging while the bus is on the road,’’ Mr Constance said. Local MPs Peter Sidgreaves (Camden) and Melanie Gibbons (Holsworthy) joined the minister and Interline representatives for this morning’s launch.

Hit the road: (from left) MPs Peter Sidgreaves, Melanie Gibbons and the transport minister at Leppington “The new electric buses are not only better for local commuters’ health and the environment, but they will also save taxpayers money on maintenance and operation costs,’’ Mr Sidgreaves said. The first Interline electric bus is one of 50 that will hit the road in Greater Sydney this year. “Five electric buses have already been trialled in Sydney’s inner west, and now it is time for customers in the south west to start reaping the benefits of this amazing technology,’’ Mr Constance said. “We are one step closer to creating a greener, cleaner and healthier future for the people of NSW, with inner west customers and staff already giving us positive feedback about the quieter journeys. “The NSW Government is committed to transitioning its 8,000 diesel buses to zero emission technology. “I have previously set Transport NSW the goal of electrifying the fleet by 2031,’’ the minister said.

One more photo…for the road.

Member for Holsworthy Melanie Gibbons said it was exciting to see the NSW Government’s electric bus vision becoming a reality. “Commuters in South Western Sydney will now get to enjoy the benefits of electric bus technology,’’ she said. “It’s really great to see it reaching our local streets, and everyone will notice the difference. “These buses are better for our health and the environment, and they are much quieter than their diesel counterparts – which is a big win for commuters and residents alike.’’ Interline is yet to confirm the route of the first electric bus, but 859 (Carnes Hills to Edmondson Park) and 858 (Oran Park Town Centre to Leppington) are in the mix for consideration.

Holiday at the RTBU Jervis Bay Holiday Park

Treat your family to a relaxing holiday, enjoying the pristine waterways, flora and fauna, and tranquility of the Booderee National Park. All RTBU members (as well as HSU and USU members) pay a discounted member rate. Nonmembers are able to book at the RTBU Holiday Park at a higher rate. Information is available on our facebook page RTBU Holiday Park Jervis Bay, and all bookings are to be made through the union office. Bookings are restricted on the basis of one unit per member (during summer holidays,.....for a minimum of one week and a maximum of two weeks from Saturday to Saturday). Proof of membership will be required upon arrival. For more information about the Holiday Park or any questions, please call the RTBU office on (02) 9264 2511 or email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au.