Volgren delivers its 50th electric bus

The first of two Volvo BZL vehicles built in Brisbane at Eagle Farm marks bus body manufacturer Volgren’s 50th Battery Electric Bus (BEB) delivery.

The two vehicles fitted with the company’s Optimus bodies delivered to Queensland’s Translink will be operated by Brisbane City Council on the Spring Hill Loop – a free city service for commuters.

CEO of Volgren Thiago Deiro said: “Our Eagle Farm facility has emerged as a thriving centre for battery electric bus manufacturing, acting as our primary hub for producing cutting-edge electric buses.

“From humble beginnings as a factory primarily focused on a single contract, Eagle Farm has rapidly evolved into a high-flexible and capable facility, accommodating over 15 different customers across three different states.

“This highlights the trust and confidence that numerous customers have placed in Volgren’s expertise and the quality of our electric buses.”

Since the first locally built electric bus rolled out of Eagle Farm in 2022, the facility has delivered close to 40 BEBs, with a healthy pipeline of orders to come, according to the company.

To cope with the extra demand, Volgren Brisbane has doubled in size to 100 employees.

Volgren’s Chief Commercial Officer Yuri Tessari said Volgren’s partnership with Translink and their operators had played a significant role in transitioning their Brisbane operation to building battery electric buses.

Tessari said said: “The procurement of battery electric buses from Volgren demonstrates a commitment to sustainable transportation and a reduction in emissions in the public transportation sector.

“It has also provided Volgren with a valuable opportunity to showcase our expertise in manufacturing BEBs and gain real-world experience in producing electric buses.

“This collaboration has allowed Volgren to adapt its Brisbane operation to incorporate the design, engineering, and manufacturing processes required for building BEBs.”

Picture: Volgren