The first Volvo BZL Electric bus in an initial order of 18 electric buses has been completed, marking a significant milestone in Western Australia’s transition to zero-emission public transport. The bus was manufactured in Perth by Volgren Australia, built on a Volvo BZL Electric chassis imported from overseas.
This initiative is part of a $250 million joint project between the Western Australian state government and the Australian federal government. Under the agreement, each government will contribute AUD$125 million, with the federal government focusing on developing electric bus charging infrastructure, while the state government will procure locally manufactured electric buses.
The delivery of the 18 buses is scheduled for completion by mid-2025, after which the new vehicles will operate on Perth’s Central Area Transit (CAT) routes.
Mitchell Peden, General Manager of Volvo Bus Australia, expressed pride in contributing to sustainable public transport in the region. “The Volvo BZL Electric is an excellent product delivering leading safety, security, and long-term reliability, along with industry-leading Volvo training and product support,” said Peden.
This comes after a successful trial of four Volvo BZL Electric buses in the Joondalup area, which began in February 2022. The trial buses have collectively transported over 440,000 passengers, covered more than 380,000 kilometers, and saved approximately 350 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
Western Australian ministers, including Patrick Gorman, Federal Member for Perth; Roger Cook, Premier of Western Australia; and Rita Saffioti, Deputy Premier of Western Australia, were present at the Volvo BZL Electric bus launch in Perth.
The Volvo BZL Electric bus boasts zero emissions, advanced safety systems, and an energy-efficient electric drivetrain, positioning it as a key player in the region’s journey toward sustainable public transportation.
