The ACT Government has announced the new Custom Denning ‘Element’ floor battery electric bus (BEB) will join Canberra’s fleet as the State electrify its public transport.
“According to the Australia Institute, the ACT is leading the country by the number of electric buses delivered per capita and these new buses will further increase our growing zero emission fleet,” Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel said.
In addition, Minister Steel stated that the ACT is a leader in providing electric vehicle training and supporting the heavy vehicle workforce to prepare for the transition to the new technology.
“These ‘Element’ buses will provide clean, quiet and comfortable services that are zero emissions so that Canberrans can take everyday action on climate change by taking quality public transport,” the Minister added.
Custom Denning buses have been constructed in Sydney and will be based at Belconnen Depot, with charging infrastructure installed using the existing grid energy supply.
“Custom Denning is both honoured and excited to be collaborating with Transport Canberra and the ACT Government in the electrification of the ACT bus fleet and the transition to a “net-zero” future,” Custom Denning National Relationship Manager Mick Neskes said.
Minister Steel explained that each bus takes approximately five hours to charge and can go up to 400 kilometres on a single charge, allowing them to operate efficiently and effectively.
“Electric buses are cutting noise pollution and harmful noxious emissions on our streets. These buses are so quiet that they are fitted with sound warnings when the bus starts to reduce speeds below 20 kilometres per hour or starts to increase speeds up to 23 kilometres per hour. This promotes safety for pedestrians and people with vision impairment,” Minister Steel said.
With the arrival of these four new electric buses, Canberra’s total electric bus fleet will increase to 16, with an additional 90 electric buses due to be delivered over the next three years.
The Zero-Emission Transition Plan for Transport Canberra aims to upgrade the grid and depots, upgrade public transport workers’ skills, and support the growing electric bus fleet.
