The Minns Labor Government is marking a major milestone in the transition to cleaner, quieter and more sustainable transport and proving that Zero Emission Buses (ZEBs) are ready for all terrains and regions.
An electric bus trial in Tweed Heads has not only delivered standout results, but the data collected is offering valuable insights to support the statewide rollout of ZEBs.
After more than a year in operation, the two electric buses trialled in Tweed Heads have:
- completed 42,000 passenger journeys
- travelled over 56,000 kilometres
- accumulated more than 50,000 kilograms of potential tail pipe emissions reductions.
And to top it all off, the trial has achieved a remarkable 93% passenger satisfaction rate.
The results are part of the Minns Government's 18-month Zero Emission Bus trials across five regional centres, giving planners and policymakers the critical data they need to support the broader decarbonisation of the NSW bus fleet.
These real-world trials are testing how electric buses perform over long distances, in varied terrain and regional conditions, helping to future-proof public transport in every corner of the state.
Passengers in Tweed Heads have embraced the new technology, praising the whisper quiet ride, smooth handling and enhanced travel experience.
The NSW Government has made decarbonising the transport sector a key focus of its forthcoming Net Zero Plan.
Bus operator Kinetic has managed the Tweed Heads trial, which is part of a 12-bus trial program also underway in Armidale, Queanbeyan, Deniliquin and Narrabri.
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
"These regional trials are helping us understand how electric buses can work across NSW - not just in cities, but in the regional communities that also rely on public transport every day.
"These insights will guide our transition to a cleaner bus fleet, helping us decarbonise transport and deliver quieter streets and better journeys.
"Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with passengers reporting a noticeably more comfortable journey. We're excited to be working with local operators to help shape the future of sustainable public transport in NSW."
Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
"Tweed Heads and other regional communities are helping to shape the future of public transport in NSW.
"Regional NSW is not just participating in this transition, it's leading it.
"These trials are giving us the confidence and evidence we need to expand Zero Emission Buses right across the state.
"Passengers are voting with their feet. They are clearly enjoying the benefits of a quieter, smoother and more sustainable ride.
"In places like Armidale, Tweed Heads, Queanbeyan, Narrabri and Deniliquin, we're seeing electric buses perform reliably over long distances, tough terrain, and in challenging weather. This is giving us valuable insights into how we can scale this technology across regional NSW."
Government spokesperson for Tweed Emily Suvaal said:
"It's great to see the Tweed region playing such an important role in shaping the future of transport in NSW. These trial results show just how ready the region is to lead the charge on clean, quiet and reliable public transport.
"The Minns Labor Government know regional areas face unique challenges and this trial shows electric buses can meet that test.
"The Minns Government is delivering a transport future that's better for passengers and the planet."
