Double decker buses immediately increase commuter capacity

Three new double decker buses will roll into service this month in Region 3, with Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) operator Transit Systems proudly increasing capacity on Sydney’s busiest routes.

Transit Systems NSW Managing Director Jamie Sinclair said the new Volvo buses would have an immediate and positive impact for today’s passengers, creating around 1,700 extra spaces a day for customers on the T80.

“The new double decker buses simply have more capacity, giving passengers peace of mind that they can travel at peak times, on their preferred routes.

“Our aim is to enhance the customer service for all passengers, from better on time running, to safe and reliable services, and these buses help us deliver a more comfortable service where and when extra seats are needed the most,” he said.

The buses will service routes across Western Suburbs, operating from Smithfield depot.

Volvo Bus Australia General Manager, Mitch Peden, said the buses were proudly made Australia ‘road ready’ with local partners and are equipped with the latest bus technology and safety features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Electronic Braking System (EBS), anti-slip, acceleration limiter and hill start aid for driver support in every situation.

“We commend Transit Systems on putting customers first and bringing Volvo’s B8L Double Deckers into service,” said Peden.

“With capacity to accommodate 85 seated passengers and 21 standing, plus a driver, the Volvo B8LDD utilises common rail technology and electronically powered auxiliaries for noise reductions to ensure a quiet and comfortable ride for all. These new B8LDD units also provide efficiency with the Volvo D8K engine to deliver more power on substantially lower fuel consumption.”

Double decker buses also provide better environmental outcomes, with more capacity using one engine – a change Neil Smith, Non-Executive Director Kelsian Group (which owns Transit Systems) is passionate about, having recently established the Neil Smith Chair of Sustainable Transport in the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS) for 10 years, with the largest ever donation to the University of Sydney Business School.