Clarks set to roll out electric buses

Bus travel is set to look and feel a little different in Logan with a reelected Palaszczuk Government to supercharge the industry by building and trialling electric bus technology in the region.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey made the announcement this week and said Logan commuters would be among the first to enjoy a first-hand glimpse of the future with the government to partner with Clarks Logan City Bus Service and Gold Coast bus manufacturer Bustech.

“We’ve built light rail, we’re rolling out the longest electric vehicle superhighway in the world, and from next year locals will build and ride electric buses that will be able to travel up to 300km from a single charge,” Mr Bailey said.

“It’s part of a $23 billion commitment by the Palaszczuk Government to supercharge roads, public transport and jobs.”

Bustech will build the electric vehicles supporting the company’s 150 jobs and boosting local supply chains in the process.

Member for Waterford Shannon Fentiman said the buses would be rolled out onto bus routes across Logan.

“Before COVID-19 hit, our community was a driving force behind two record years of public transport use,” Ms Fentiman said.

“As part of Queensland’s plan for economic recovery, the Palaszczuk Government is extending the busway in Logan thanks to the $749 million M1 upgrade through to Daisy Hill, and very soon we’ll see electric buses on our streets.”

Clarks General Manager Martin Hall said the new buses would be something local residents would be proud of.

“As Logan matures as one of Queensland’s most attractive cities to live and do business in, Clarks continues to look for better ways to keep residents moving and connected - and greener buses will make travelling with us an even better experience,” Mr Hall said.

Queensland Bus Industry Council Executive Director David Tape said he welcomed the greener bus future and investment in the state's bus industry.

"Queensland's bus industry keeps more than 10,000 people in jobs across the state and makes 125 million trips each year," Mr Tape said.

"Having more electric and greener bus fleets is important as well as ongoing investment and support for our vital industry.”