Kinetic opens latest electric bus depot in West Auckland
Kinetic has proudly opened its latest electric bus depot in New Zealand, officially unveiling the facility in West Auckland while welcoming an additional 43 new zero-emission buses to the city’s bus network in partnership with Auckland Transport (AT).
This milestone follows the opening of Kinetic’s first fully electric depot in East Auckland earlier this year, which is home to 35 electric buses.
The New Lynn depot has the latest technology to reduce burden on the grid and improve the environmental impact of Auckland’s zero emission bus fleet – all without putting Auckland’s energy supply at risk.
As part of the upgrade works, 26 chargers – each capable of charging two buses simultaneously – have been installed at the depot to charge the electric buses overnight.
By April next year, 86 zero emission buses will be operating from this depot, making it New Zealand’s largest all-electric bus operation. These zero emission vehicles are among 152 electric buses Kinetic is delivering in partnership with Auckland Transport to accelerate the decarbonisation of the city’s urban bus network.
Calum Haslop, Head of Kinetic in NZ, says Kinetic is fully committed to reducing the environmental impact of bus operations.
“Auckland is casting a light on a path that progressive cities can follow as we accelerate the adoption of transport technologies and improve the resource efficiency of our bus operations,” Mr Haslop says.
“This new technology manages when and how much each bus is charged – which is very important for load management on the Vector network and of course using off-peak energy prices.
“Auckland now has one of the most expansive electric bus fleets in New Zealand, and we’re excited to be in the front seat, on the front line, driving this transformation on a grand scale.”
AT’s Executive General Manager of Public Transport Services, Stacey van der Putten, says this is another significant step forward in implementing the Low Emission Bus Roadmap to decarbonise Auckland’s public transport.
“It aligns with the government’s 2035 mandate for the full decarbonisation of urban buses in New Zealand,” she says.
“It’s been exciting to witness the transition to electric buses recently and we know our customers are enjoying the cleaner, quieter travel. Auckland Transport is creating an efficient and sustainable transport network that helps Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland become a truly liveable city and region.”
Kinetic is the largest operator of electric buses in New Zealand, with 200 zero emission vehicles powered by eight depots across Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington.
Globally, Kinetic’s electric bus fleet is expected to grow to 1,000 this year with operations in Australia, the UK, Europe and Singapore. The company is aiming to achieve net zero emissions by 2035, which includes a 100 per cent electric fleet.
Further enquiries
Barrett Gibson
GM - Marketing & Communications
0424 647 488
barrettg@wearekinetic.com