Auckland reveals first images of new 152-strong electric bus fleet

Auckland Transport, the public transport operator controlled by Auckland Council, has offered a sneak peek of some of its new electric buses, the first part of an order of 152 electric buses that will replace 12% of Auckland’s diesel bus fleet.

Unveiled on Monday across Auckland Transport’s social media channels, the first electric buses ordered as part of what is reportedly Australasia’s biggest ever electric bus order were shown off trundling around Auckland’s streets.

Auckland Transport announced back in November 2021 that it was ordering 152 battery-electric buses from local manufacturer NZ Bus, New Zealand’s largest bus company.

The 152 battery-electric buses will replace approximately 12% of the diesel fleet in operation around Auckland and will operate in the city centre and across some of the city’s most congested urban areas – helping to meet climate change goals and improve air quality.

“These 152 new e-buses will replace around 12% of Auckland’s diesel bus fleet and reduce Auckland Transport’s greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 11% annually – equivalent to almost 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year,” said Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, speaking in November 2021.

“With transport making up more than 40% of Auckland’s emissions profile, it’s crucial that we pull every available lever to reduce emissions.

“Having already halted the purchase of new diesel vehicles and rolled out 33 electric buses on more than 13 services throughout the region, this is another step towards a zero-emissions bus fleet for Tāmaki Makaurau. It’s encouraging to see Auckland Transport and NZ Bus working together to make that happen.”