Leading Hunter Region transport operator Port Stephens Coaches is coming together with Zero Emissions transport supplier Foton Mobility Distribution (FMD) and University of Newcastle, to run a short trial of a Battery Electric City Bus (BEV).
The trial, to be run over approximately 4 weeks, will test the suitability of the vehicle for regular scheduled passenger services between Newcastle City and the University of Newcastle Callaghan Campus.
University of Newcastle’s Director of Infrastructure Facilities and Services, Steve Johnston, said this trial is an opportunity to engage with Industry who have a shared vision for innovative and sustainable operations.
“Electric vehicles are an essential step towards building more sustainable societies, and we are fortunate to participate in this trial to demonstrate that ethically minded technology can meet the demands of our communities today”.
“During the trial period the BEV will replace one of the two hybrid shuttles we offer as part of our inter Campus NUspace Shuttle that runs between Newcastle City and Callaghan Campus and adds to our ongoing commitment for sustainable transport options for staff and students”.
Iain Dorward, FMD Heavy Vehicle Sales Manager said “We are extremely excited to partner with Port Stephens Coaches to operate and trial the Foton Battery Electric City Bus. The trial will help us determine the vehicle requirements and best practices to successfully run the University Shuttle Bus whilst moving forward towards a common net zero goal. We are equally pleased that the University of Newcastle is involved and leading the way in the education sector towards the goal of CO2 neutrality. It is a privilege to be a part of this trial and to be able to demonstrate that BEV technology can be successful outside of the capital cities”.
The FMD 12.5m. Low Floor Battery Electric City Bus has the potential to save up to 108kg of CO2 per 100km driven, or approximately 104,000kg of CO2 entering the atmosphere per annum, equivalent to 19 Sydney to Melbourne passenger Jet Flights, or removing 3 Heavy Duty Diesel trucks off our roads for a year.
The Foton BEV, which seats 44 passengers, runs on a World’s best CATL Power battery, with a DANA Motor producing peak power of 245kw, and comes with a 5yr 400,000 km Warranty, and 8yr. 640,000km warranty on the Power Battery. The battery can achieve full charge within 90 minutes (Using a 240kw DC Fast Charger).
The trial concluded on August 4. The BEV shuttle was picking up and droping off University of Newcastle staff and students from regular Newcastle city and Callaghan Campus bus stops.
