December 14, 07
World’s First Solar Powered Electric Bus

The Adelaide City Council has raised the standard in International sustainability with the introduction of the world’s first solar-powered electric bus.

It’s the first electric solar bus is recharged using 100% solar energy, and is a free everyday service for the people of Adelaide through the Council’s Adelaide Connector Bus service.

Manufactured by New Zealand company Designline International, the bus doesn’t have a combustion engine, which makes it a very quiet, zero emissions vehicle.

It features high quality, state-of-the-art components sourced from some of the world’s leading transport and technology companies including MAN and Siemens.

And in a further ‘green’ development being introduced by the Adelaide City Council, the bus will be recharged using a solar photovoltaic system supplied by BP Solar Environment Tindo Sideand installed at the soon-to-be-completed Adelaide Central Bus Station.

This system is the largest grid connected solar photovoltaic system in the State, and means the bus is also carbon neutral.

The air-conditioned solar electric bus can carry up to 42 passengers, with 25 Environment Tindo Backstandard seats, two seats especially designed for disabled passengers, and roomfor 15 standing passengers.

The solar electric bus and the recharging system at the Adelaide Central Bus Station represent a significant investment by the Adelaide City Council into a sustainable future for the City of Adelaide, while providing leadership in sustainable public transport options for cities around Australia.