11 June 2018

Christchurch is one step closer to becoming net carbon neutral by 2030 as Red Bus introduces New Zealand’s first fully electric urban bus route.

Red Bus announced today three new electric buses will be used on bus route 29 between the central city and Christchurch Airport, which transports more than 200,000 passengers a year.

ChristchurchNZ CEO Joanna Norris said the bus service is an essential step towards Christchurch becoming carbon neutral by 2030 and demonstrated the city’s commitment to the environment.

“As a city we pride ourselves on looking outside of the box and pioneering new technologies. Already we are exploring other innovative transport ideas – such as the Omhio autonomous vehicle trial and the Yoogo electric car sharing scheme – and establishing the city’s first electric bus route makes great sense.”

Christchurch City Council announced in November 2017 its aim to become carbon neutral by 2030, as part of their commitment to the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The electric buses can be used all day on the airport route without needing to be recharged, based on the use of similar electric buses in Australia, China, and London.

ENDS

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