The State Government is powering towards its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Cleaner, greener public transport is a win for South Australians and the environment.
Zero emission transport releases no greenhouse gases or other pollutants into the atmosphere, helping create a cleaner and healthier future. Here are just some of the projects we’re working on as we transition to a zero emission public transport future.
Trains on non-electrified rail lines
We’ve engaged transport experts Ricardo Rail to explore zero emission options for trains on the Belair, Outer Harbor and Grange rail lines, and the Port Dock spur line. This include looking at traditional electrification as well as emerging technologies like battery and hydrogen power to find the most suitable solution.
Hybrid-diesel train now in service
After a successful testing period, we have converted to a fleet of 50 hybrid-diesel trains. These trains are now running on the Outer Harbor, Grange, and Belair lines. You’ll recognise them by their distinctive bright green colour.
Our hybrid-diesel trains are more reliable, produce fewer emissions than traditional diesels trains and reduce fuel consumption by up to 25%, all while providing a more comfortable journey for passengers.
Each railcar is fitted with an energy storage and recovery system that captures excess energy when the train brakes and stores it in a battery for later use. The stored energy can also supply power for lighting and air-conditioning at the Adelaide Railway Station platforms, helping to reduce noise, emissions, and air pollution.
Bus fleet transition
Upgrading all Adelaide Metro buses and bus depots to zero emission by 2050 is a big undertaking. We’ve partnered with GHD and Evenergi to develop the most efficient and effective transition plan to reach this goal
Hydrogen bus trial
One of our bus operators, Torrens Transit is doing a two-year trial of two Foton Mobility hydrogen fuel cell buses. These buses rely on a fuel cell to charge the bus battery and power its electric drive motor. The buses are already in service, so keep an eye out for them.
Adelaide’s first 100% electric bus now in service
The state’s first 100% electric bus is now operating on the Adelaide Metro network. The battery electric bus is fitted with lithium batteries that can provide over 260 kilometres of travel range on a single charge. As well as being better for the environment, the bus offers passengers a quieter, more comfortable ride.
For more information: Breath of fresh air as SA’s first fully electric bus powers up
Busways and Torrens Transit electric bus trial
Following a two-month trial by Busways, our bus operator in Southern Adelaide, the new Yutong electric bus is now being trialled by Torrens Transit on more Adelaide bus routes.
The trial will measure how well electric buses suit the local driving environment, and how they perform compared to Adelaide's hybrid buses which use a diesel motor.
These trials will inform future energy efficient transport options across the Adelaide Metro network, by allowing us to compare the performance of different types of bus models.