New bus charges into service
All-electric ‘Evie’ can carry 27 seated passengers, 27 standing passengers and two wheelchairs
The Taupō 33 Connector service is getting a brand-new bus — and it’s an all-electric vehicle (EV). The new electric bus, affectionately known as “Evie”, can carry 27 seated passengers, 27 standing passengers and two wheelchairs, has a bike rack on the front, and can also tilt and extend a ramp for easy passenger access.
It has a 281kW/h battery pac,k giving it a range of approximately 300km, USB chargers throughout, and it will be charged at Tranzit NZ’s Taupō depot.
The new bus is an initiative by Taupō District Council and Waikato Regional Council, in partnership with Tranzit Coachlines Central.
The 33 Connector service travels between Wharewaka and Nukuhau six days a week.
Taupō Mayor David Trewavas says the new bus is a fantastic — and more environmentally friendly — addition to the district’s public transport network.
“The 33 Connector service is a great way to get around, and with the
new electric bus, it just got even better.
“This is a great initiative, and because the new bus can also carry
bicycles, it works really well with our fantastic shared pathway and cycling network.
“And, for the first week of operation,
you can ride the bus for free – so come on, Taupō , get behind this, whether it’s for your commute or just to do the shopping.”
Tranzit Coachlines Central manager Connor Mear said they are proud to be introducing the new electric bus to Taupō and continuing to decarbonise public transport beyond New Zealand’s major centres.
“Based on our experiences of introducing electric buses into Wellington, Auckland and Palmerston North, we are confident passengers in Taupō will enjoy a smoother, quieter journey and feel good about taking the first step towards a more sustainable bus fleet in this beautiful part of the central North Island.”
The new bus will be formally blessed by the Reverend Peace Mitchell on Friday, December 1 and will enter service from Monday, December 4.
The Connector service operates from Monday to Saturday. People can ride the new electric service for free during December by grabbing one of the 250 complimentary tickets available at the Taupō Customer and Visitor Information Centre.