Brisbane Airport (BNE) has unveiled the first all-electric hazardous goods vehicle and refueller approved for use in Australia.
Operated by Air bp, the vehicle was developed in Australia. Following a testing phase in Queensland, Air bp hopes to place a larger order for the vehicles and eventually develop export opportunities.
"We are delighted to launch the refueller at Brisbane Airport where we are responsible for fuelling 30 airlines and approximately 100 flights daily. Our work reflects bp’s ambition to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner and to help the world get to net zero by working with our customers to help decarbonise fuelling operations," said Daniel Tyzack, managing director, Air bp Asia Pacific.
Brisbane Airport was chosen as its vast size will provide a robust test for the battery system, and because of its track record as an early adopter of sustainable technologies.
The new vehicle will add to the growing fleet of electric-powered vehicles across the airport campus. In 2018 BNE launched Queensland’s first all-electric bus fleet, reducing emissions by 250 tonnes each year. The airport is also home to 18,000 solar panels, with more to come. BNE will meet its 2025 net zero target by switching to 100% green energy, and by developing an onsite carbon removal project within its 285-hectare Biodiversity Zone.
The refueller can carry 16,000 litres of Jet-A1 and has been designed to operate on lithium-ion batteries for a full day with overnight charging. It is now in service at BNE.
Federal Transport Minister Catherine King (pictured) launched the vehicle during her first official visit to Brisbane Airport.
Image: Brisbane Airport
