Auckland Transport will carry out a full trial of electric buses.

The government has announced funding for the e-bus trial and related infrastructure as part of the EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) Low Emission Vehicles Contestable Fund.

Auckland Transport (AT) has been awarded up to $500,000 to part fund an electric bus trial and close to $300,000 for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. AT will top up the funding so two buses can be used in the trial.

'Great news for Auckland'

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says, “Great news for Auckland as we do our part to reduce emissions and combat climate change.

“Whether it is trains, buses or cars, electrification of our transport network is key to making Auckland a cleaner more sustainable city, and providing a better customer experience for our public transport users.”

Trials to begin this year

The grant from EECA will mean that a full trial can begin later this year.

Modern electric buses can have a range of more than 200km with one charge and can be enabled for fast or overnight charging.

Funding has also been provided for installing 60 EV charging stations at AT parking facilities around Auckland.