Hybrid buses roll out in Melbourne

Victoria's public transport has taken a step towards a more sustainable future, with the first of what will eventually be a fleet of 50 hybrid buses recently entering service with CDC Victoria.

Delivering emissions reductions, better fuel economy and less noise, CDC Victoria says the fleet represents what is to date the largest single order of hybrid buses in Australia.

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Featuring Volvo's Parallel Hybrid driveline and with the body building and fit-out handled by Volgren in Dandenong, in Melbourne's east, the trucks meet Euro 6 emissions standards and offer a reduction of nitrogen oxide and particulate matter of up to 50 per cent, while also reducing carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40 per cent.

The introduction follows rigorous local testing that found the hybrid buses use up to 30 per cent less fuel and significantly reduce noise, particularly when idling and departing bus stops.

A total of 30 buses will be rolled out in Melbourne over the next 12 months, with all 50 to be in service on CDC routes in Wyndham, Oakleigh and Sunshine by mid-2022.

The CEO of CDC Victoria, Nicholas Yap, said his team is proud of the modernisation of CDC's Victorian bus fleet.

"Our new fleet of hybrid buses is an exciting development that demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering transport innovation by reducing both the emissions and fuel consumption of our fleet," he said.

"As a business, we're deeply committed to helping shape a better future for the next generation through reducing our carbon footprint."

Victoria's Minister for Public Transport, Melissa Horne, said the move marked an important step for the overall modernisation of the state's public transport network.

"We're securing local jobs and supporting the environment with Australia's largest single order of hybrid buses," she said.

"This is part of the biggest order of new trains, trams and buses this state has ever seen, which are being built right here in Victoria.

"We're modernising, expanding and upgrading Melbourne's bus fleet, improving the passenger experience, delivering local jobs and reducing the impact on the environment."