The transition to electric buses is surging ahead with the Willoughby and Neutral Bay bus depots among the first to be to be converted for an electric future as a part of a $3 billion spend by the NSW Government into zero emission buses.

The bus depots will be upgraded with electric charging infrastructure to support 120 new zero emissions buses that the depots will receive in the first tranche of electric bus procurement. The Willoughby depot will receive 62 new electric buses with the Neutral Bay depot receiving 58.

Member for Willoughby Tim James said the upgrade of the depots and the new buses would support jobs and make for a quieter, more comfortable journey for passengers.  

“It’s very exciting that our two local depots will be amongst the first to be converted to the latest in electric charging technology,” Mr James said. 

“The introduction of more electric buses on our local roads will reduce emissions as well as noise on our streets, improve air quality and ensure passengers enjoy a smoother ride.”

“The NSW Government’s investment will make our state a global leader and will also deliver benefits to the NSW economy by supporting local jobs, as we ramp up bus production in NSW.”

Willoughby and Neutral Bay will be upgraded alongside Leichhardt, Tempe, South Granville, Kingsgrove, Menai, Taren Point, Port Botany, Randwick, and Brookvale depots.

“Zero Emission Buses release no exhaust fumes, resulting in better air quality for people’s health and the environment,” said Mr James.

“Willoughby is at the forefront of this cutting-edge upgrade and we look forward to seeing the transition soon at our two local depots.”  

“As Chair of the Legislative Assembly’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee I was proud to lead an inquiry into emissions free modes of public transport that recommended we take this step towards a cleaner future for our bus network.”

Transport for NSW is already operating Australia’s largest Zero Emission Bus fleet, with more than 100 buses already in service.

Find out more about the project at www.transport.nsw.gov.au/zeroemissionbuses.