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Test Comparing Hydrogen and Electric Buses in New South Wales

Buses fueled by hydrogen and electricity to compete in a $25 million test trial in regional New South Wales. A battle between hydrogen-powered and electric buses is set to take place in a significant regional NSW trial.

Comparison of Hydrogen and Electric Buses in New South Wales Trial
Comparison of Hydrogen and Electric Buses in New South Wales Trial

Test Comparing Hydrogen and Electric Buses in New South Wales

NSW and Queensland Pledge Zero-Emission Bus Fleets by 2030 and 2040, Respectively

In a significant move towards a greener future, the Australian states of New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland have announced ambitious plans to transition their bus fleets to zero-emission vehicles.

NSW Treasurer Matt Kean recently launched a call for bus and coach operators to join a $25 million transport trial aimed at transitioning the state's public transport to greener alternatives. The trial, set to begin within weeks, will compare battery electric and hydrogen bus technology in various regions of NSW, including greater Sydney, the far north coast, Illawarra and Southern Highlands, as well as northern, inner west, southeast and southwest Sydney.

The first hydrogen bus trial in NSW will take place on the Central Coast. The trial's goal is to assess different technology solutions and determine the better solution for NSW's public transport. Mr. Kean stated that hydrogen is one of the many ways forward in the heavy transport sector, and this trial will ensure investment in clean technology, grow the economy, and support regional jobs.

Queensland has also pledged to ensure all new bus purchases are electric by 2030. Victoria will ensure all new bus purchases are electric by 2025. These four states and territories join South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory in setting deadlines for a transition to zero-emission bus fleets.

The transition of NSW's bus fleet will start in greater Sydney by 2035, outer metropolitan areas by 2040, and regional areas by 2047. The NSW government has committed to swapping more than 8000 diesel and gas public transport buses with zero-emission models.

The hydrogen bus trial is designed to compare hydrogen buses with battery electric buses. Hydrogen buses are being tested to determine if they are better suited for regional areas due to their potentially greater range. Mr. Kean mentioned that the transition of NSW's bus fleet will have widespread benefits including improving air quality, noise reduction, a smoother trip for commuters, and creating jobs across NSW.

The deadline for expressions of interest for the trial is March 2. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the NSW government's website for more information.

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