Victoria's Hybrid Buses Will Soon Be Able to Achieve Zero Emissions in Certain Drive Zones

Victoria already boasts a hefty fleet of self-charging electric buses, but the system's about to become even greener, in a win for both the environment and commuters. Off the back of an extensive trial, the state's locally made Volvo hybrid vehicles are set to score new technology that'll allow them to achieve zero emissions along certain areas of their route.

Once Volvo's new Zone Management system is fitted out across the whole existing fleet of electric buses, it'll enable them to run exclusively in electric drive mode when travelling through designated zones. That not only allows for the cut in emissions, but also means passengers can enjoy a quieter ride. Plus, other road users, pedestrians and outdoor diners aren't forced to cop an earful of those loud bus noises as the vehicles drive past.

The Zone Management system is a first for Australia, run using a combination of geofencing technology and telematics — so a virtual perimeter enforced via technological means. Once installed, it'll help maximise vehicle performance, without the need for pricey charging infrastructure or dipping into the state's electricity grid.

Keen to check out the difference for yourself? The system is already getting a run, with nine of Victoria's hybrid buses currently using the new technology, including those on inner-city bus routes 630 and 605. The system will be rolled out across the rest of the fleet over the next four months.

Victoria's 50-strong hybrid bus fleet was officially launched in 2019, with the aim of saving 1724 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year. That's the equivalent of around 365 passenger vehicles, or the annual electricity usage of around 300 homes.

 

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The Volvo Zone Management system is currently being installed across CDC Victoria's entire fleet of hybrid buses. You can find out more about the company's sustainability efforts at the website.