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. Here are just some of the projects we’re currently 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. Traditional electrification and emerging technologies like battery and hydrogen power will be included in our search for the most suitable solutions.
Hybrid-diesel train now in service
After the successful testing period of our first hybrid-diesel train, we're now in the process of converting to a fleet of 50 hybrid diesel trains. These trains are already running on the Outer Harbor, Grange, and Belair lines. You’ll recognise them by their distinctive bright green colour.
Our new hybrid-diesel trains are more reliable and release less fumes than traditional diesels, reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and provide a more comfortable journey for passengers.
Each railcar is fitted with an energy storage and recovery system that recovers excess energy when the train brakes and stores it in a battery for later use. The stored energy will also be used to supply power for lighting and air-conditioning at the Adelaide Railway Station train platform, reducing noise, emissions, and air pollution.
We currently have 28 hybrid-diesel railcars in service and we're looking forward to adding the remaining 22 to our fleet in the near future.
Bus fleet transition
Upgrading all Adelaide Metro buses and bus depots to zero emission by 2050 is a huge undertaking. We’ve partnered with GHD and Evenergi to find the most efficient and effective transition plan to reach this goal
Hydrogen bus trial
Our bus operator, Torrens Transit has started a two-year trial of two Foton Mobility hydrogen fuel cell buses which rely on a fuel cell to charge the bus battery and power its electric drive motor. The buses are out and about servicing routes 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 servicing 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.