Metro has appointed three firms to supply equipment for operational trials of two separate zero emission bus (ZEB) technologies in Tasmania.
The contracts were awarded following an extensive request for expression of interest and a request-for-tender process run late last year.
The successful suppliers are:
- Foton Mobility Distribution Pty Ltd: contracted for supply and maintenance of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses (FCEB) in Hobart.
- H2H Energy Pty Ltd: contracted for supply and maintenance of one Hydrogen Refuelling Station to be installed at Metro’s Mornington satellite yard in Hobart.
- Custom Bus Group Pty Ltd: contracted for supply and maintenance of three battery electric buses (BEB) and associated battery chargers for Launceston.
In Hobart, three FCEBs will operate on a wide range of Metro routes for three years, expected to commence in mid-2024. A FCEB is powered by an electric motor, using hydrogen gas as fuel. The hydrogen is converted to electricity on board through a fuel cell. The FCEBs will be refuelled at a hydrogen refuelling station at Metro’s Mornington yard.
The BEBs will operate Metro services across the Launceston network for two years starting in the last quarter of 2023. A BEB also has an electric motor with energy provided by on board batteries. The batteries are charged by mains power via special chargers which will be installed in Metro’s Launceston depot.
These trials will provide Metro with critical operational experience and information to inform the longer-term transition of Metro’s fleet to zero emission buses.
Battery Electric Bus concept, provided by Custom Denning