Taste of hybrid bus future in Wellington next week

A hybrid bus is coming to Wellington next Wednesday and Wellingtonians are encouraged to get on board for a taste of the new bus future, says Paul Swain, Greater Wellington Regional Council's public transport portfolio leader.

"Hybrid buses  - a combination of diesel and electric power - are part of our transition path to a fully electric bus fleet in the longer term, when the technology is more mature and affordable. The Council has decided that we want the Wellington City bus fleet to include 10 high capacity double-decker hybrid buses from 2018.

"Volvo has recently brought a single-decker hybrid bus to New Zealand and we'll be hosting it in Wellington next Wednesday 13 January.  This is a great opportunity for people to get on board and experience low emission, modern bus technology and travel.  I'd really encourage people to take a ride if they can."

The next day (Thursday 14 January), the bus will be used to run regular Johnsonville and Newlands services as part of a three-week demonstration being undertaken by Mana Newlands Coach Services.    

Catch a free ride on a hybrid bus on the Golden Mile

When:            1pm - 3pm Wednesday 13 January 2016

Where:          The bus will travel between Wellington Railway Station (departing from Stop C) and Courtenay Place, stopping at all stops along the Golden Mile.