Volvo Buses
Australia
The new order follows LVBL’s successful 12 month trial of a Volvo Hybrid bus, in which the technology proved to save more than 30% fuel and CO2 emissions, and also reduced harmful NOx by up to 50% compared to a regular diesel bus.
The eight hybrid chassis will be bodied locally in Melbourne by Volgren, who has previous experience building on Volvo hybrid chassis.
All eight hybrid buses will feature low floor layouts to improve passenger access and safety, and will operate on timetabled public transport routes around the Latrobe Valley, and will supplement LVBL’s existing Volvo Euro 6 diesel buses in their low-floor route service fleet.
The new hybrids will be delivered into service over the next three years, with the first three going into service in 2018. The first unit will commence build at Volgren in January, ready for delivery mid next year.
“Volvo’s hybrid buses are part of our ongoing approach to sustainable transport solutions and we are proud to be working on this project with Latrobe Valley Bus Lines. It’s great to see PTV and Latrobe Valley taking the first step on the longer journey towards fully electric buses in years to come,” said David Mead, Acting General Manager - Volvo Bus Australia
“Whilst we have seen the technology run now in Perth, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide and Wollongong, this is the first time we have Government, an operator and our partners aligned to move forward on a project,” he added.
LVBL Managing Director Rhonda Renwick explained the environmental benefits delivered by the Volvo hybird were key drivers behind their decision to purchase the vehicles, which is also in line with its commitment to operating a socially and environmentally responsible business.
Compared to a conventional diesel bus, the hybrid utilises energy otherwise wasted during braking. The stored energy is used to charge a battery, allowing the bus to run in silent and emisson free electric mode dring take off, which saves fuel. The Volvo B5LH hybrid chassis uses a parallel hybrid system combining the electric and diesel engine. This assists the vehicle when the battery is low or when extra power is needed for acceleration.
Worldwide Volvo has sold more than 3,700 hybrid buses in over 20 countries.
For further information, please contact:
Darian Conradie, Sales & Marketing Coordinator, Volvo Bus Australia
Phone: +61 2 8713 8246