Friday, 3 November 2017

The Andrews Labor Government is introducing hybrid technology on new buses in the Latrobe Valley to reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions and give passengers a more comfortable ride.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today welcomed the introduction of eight Victorian-built hybrid buses into the Latrobe Valley Bus Lines fleet.

The buses will reduce the impact of running bus services on the environment, improve comfort for passengers and create opportunities for local jobs.

A successful trial with Latrobe Valley Bus Lines between August 2016 and April 2017 found hybrid buses used 30 per cent less fuel and reduced noise significantly during idling and departing from stops.

Passengers also rated the new hybrid buses highly for quietness, comfort and overall journey experience during trials.

The body construction and fit out for the hybrid buses will be carried out in Dandenong by Volgren, with all eight buses also featuring low floor layouts to improve passenger access and safety.

The eight hybrid buses will be phased into the bus fleet over the next three years as part of Latrobe Valley Bus Lines normal replacement program, with the first bus coming into service mid-2018.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing:

“We’re continuing to invest in new technology that improves public transport in Gippsland, reduces our environmental footprint and creates local jobs.”

“These hybrid buses are much quieter, with passengers saying they were much more comfortable to ride.”

“Latrobe Valley is leading Victoria with new technology that benefits passengers and the environment.”

Quotes attributable to Latrobe Valley Bus Lines Managing Director Rhonda Renwick

“Latrobe Valley Bus Lines is passionate about our community and public transport.”

“Our aim is to operate a socially and environmentally responsible business and we are very excited to be introducing hybrid bus technology into our route service fleet from 2018.”