Bus operators are turning to specialist partners to power accelerate their zero emission fleet ambitions, given the technical skills and innovation required to procure and deploy infrastructure and assets, while remaining competitive.

In New Zealand, operator Uzabus, appointed Zenobē, the fleet electrification and battery storage specialist, to provide end-to-end support to deliver a greener fleet.

The modular electrification solution includes vehicle and battery financing, as well designing and building the infrastructure, with ongoing operation and maintenance for the batteries and chargers.

Justin Allan Managing Director Uzabus said the innovative commercial model appealed to Uzabus and was supported by Greater Wellington’s Metlink.

“This is a trial of two new battery electric buses, which will join the Metlink fleet,” he said, adding that partnering with a fleet electrification specialist provided confidence of service continuity.

“When assessing technology partners that could assist in achieving our zero emission goals, Zenobē’s commercial model stood out. With established processes that allow flexibility for future scaling, we are excited to accelerate our ambitions and operate a greener fleet,” he said.

We have created industry blueprints and made electric transport innovation accessible and scalable, that’s why industry partners are choosing to leverage our experience.

At Uzabus’ Kāpiti depot, we are providing a fully financed and managed solution for the electric buses, batteries and charging infrastructure, which is a new way to structure the service.

Financed and managed over 16 years, the model helps Uzabus offset the cost of electrifying through operational savings, whilst focusing on delivering a reliable, affordable service for their passengers.

The way we have structured our commercial model also provides government partners the confidence to scale zero-emission bus rollouts as they embrace the benefits of decarbonising transport fleets.

The vision is working, with Samantha Gain, Metlink group manager saying Zenobē’s expertise and infrastructure are welcome additions to the Wellington Region.

“Their technology and tech support for Uzabus will help Metlink reach our goal of an emissions free fleet by 2035.”

On the race to lower emissions and meet ambitious targets, partnerships in transport technology will remain a key driver of change.

By: Gareth Ridge
ANZ Country Director, Zenobē

Gareth leads Zenobe’s business in Australia and New Zealand, building on the growth and success of Zenobe in the UK and Europe.

He is a former Management Consultant and Strategy expert in the energy and water utility sectors and has had a focus on grid-edge technologies, both through his consulting engagements and through Zenobe’s work within the transport and energy sectors.

Gareth is excited about making a positive change in the industries we work in and facilitating rapid transformation through the use of proven technology, strong expertise and Zenobe’s access to capital.