Auckland Transport (AT) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to electrify the West Auckland bus service, WX1, with fully electric double-decker buses. The move comes as part of a new $166 million contract signed between AT and bus operator Tranzit Group, aiming to enhance public transport sustainability and efficiency in the region.
The nine-year contract will bring more than 40 new electric buses to the streets of Tāmaki Makaurau, operating under Tranzit Group’s Tranzurban Auckland brand. Over half of these buses will be double-deckers, serving key routes including the WX1, 11T/11W, and 120 bus routes.
Stacey van der Putten, AT’s Director of Public Transport and Active Modes, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November, we have seen fantastic growth on this frequent bus route which connects Westgate with the city centre, carrying more than 275,000 passengers so far.”
Van der Putten further explained the need for increased capacity, noting, “In recent months, we’ve also seen more people using buses in all parts of West Auckland than before Covid-19. In the Westgate/Massey area, patronage is about 25% higher, and in Te Atatū, it is about 30% higher. With a dedicated fleet of electric double-decker buses running the WX1 from next April, we’re looking forward to bringing improvements in reliability and comfort for our customers.”
As part of the electrification efforts, Tranzurban Auckland plans to recruit an additional 90 drivers and construct a new bus charging depot near Westgate. The depot will be equipped with a 3-megawatt charging capacity for the electric buses, serving as Tranzurban Auckland’s second bus depot.
