01 October, 2025

Nearly six years ago, when electric buses were still largely untested on Australian roads, Busways began a journey of exploration of zero emissions buses (ZEBs) which has evolved our fleet expertise, built through thousands of kilometres of real-world testing and hands-on learning.

We procured the first Australian-made ZEBs in 2020 and, since then have conducted years of systematic trials and problem-solving with different electric models from manufacturers including Custom Denning, BYD, Yutong, and Volvo. These buses travelled thousands of kilometres across metro, rural, and regional routes, tackling everything from steep hills to city traffic in varying weather conditions. The evaluation helped us understand how battery performance varies between models, sometimes by as much as 40 percent, based on region, weather or driving conditions. This helped the team refine everything from route planning to charging schedules.

"That kind of practical knowledge, you can't get it from a spec sheet. You need to put the buses on the road, measure everything, and learn from what the data tells you," says Chris Wolf, Busways Head of Assets.

Over the last few years, Busways has transformed Penrith depot significantly. Currently, the depot is equipped with nine charging pedestals powering 18 buses simultaneously, and construction is underway to install overhead gantry chargers that will support the growing electric fleet. 

Behind this infrastructure is a team that's grown with the technology. Mechanics have completed specialised electric vehicle training, with several traveling overseas for advanced manufacturer courses. Drivers have mastered the unique characteristics of electric buses. Busways’ operations team also helped develop and now uses the Australian-designed BetterFleet software platform to monitor charging status and battery levels in real-time, ensuring smooth daily operations.

These practical lessons have shaped how Busways approaches everything from depot design to route planning. 

"Six years ago, we were asking how electric buses could work for us," Chris reflects. "Now we have a clear understanding of how to ensure optimised performance from our consistently growing fleet."

Busways’ zero-emission fleet continues to expand, with two brand new Volvo BZL zero-emission buses rolling into Penrith depot this week the learning never stops.  Busways first bought Volvo buses - B58s - in 1978,” Chris said. “Five decades later, the BZLs represent the fourth ZEB model we’ve put in service, adding to our growing knowledge and experience with diverse zero-emission technologies.”

The team is now developing new operational procedures, documenting charging strategies, and refining maintenance protocols, knowledge that will be invaluable as the transition to zero emissions accelerates.

Chris Wolf sums up Busways’ approach “Each new bus and challenge adds to our experience. We’re focused on improving, growing the ZEB fleet and keeping services safe and reliable.  We are closely with Transport for NSW on this journey towards strengthening ZEB fleet in Sydney and across NSW. “