Following the successful trial of two electric BYD ADL Enviro200EV single-deck buses since 2018, six more of the type are being delivered to New Zealand company Fullers360 for operation by its Waiheke Bus Company subsidiary. Due in mid-2020, the buses will be operated on behalf of transport authority Auckland Transport (AT), with plans to add a further five later on. This will convert the entire AT Waiheke bus network, which connects with ferries to Auckland, to emission-free operation. The buses will be built to the new length of 11.6 metres, recently announced by BYD ADL, which maximises the amount of internal space and offers two extra seats and additional legroom over the previous version. Drivers will benefit from the shorter rear overhang, whilst air conditioning will ensure passenger comfort.
Fullers360 Chief Executive Officer Mike Horne said: “With Auckland Transport’s support, Fullers360 and Waiheke Bus Company are proud to lead a significant reduction in road emissions on Waiheke Island. As we revamp our fleet with new electric vehicles, the buses will continue to play an important role in connecting the Waiheke community to Matiatia Wharf and destinations across the island.”
Tony Moore, General Manager of Alexander Dennis New Zealand, enthused: “This is a fantastic continuation of the work Auckland Transport is doing to reduce emissions across the region as part of its Low Emission Bus Roadmap. Alexander Dennis would like to thank Fullers360 for this vote of confidence in our buses and we look forward to transforming Waiheke Island’s bus services.”
BYD’s General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Wing You, continued: “BYD’s latest iron phosphate battery technology powers reliable electric buses around the world. By combining our chassis with market-leading bodywork from Alexander Dennis, we are able to give Fullers360 and Auckland Transport a pure electric, zero-emission bus that exactly meets their requirements.”
