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| The first new buses are about to go into operation across Adelaide. (Supplied: SA Government) |
An agreement to manufacture more than 50 low-emission
diesel buses in northern Adelaide is promising news for a region where
Holden's imminent departure is hurting automotive suppliers, the South
Australian Government says.
There are 29 Adelaide workers involved
in the project across engineering and other roles, in a venture between
two companies Precision Components and Bustech.Precision Components director Mat Fitch hopes it will soften the impact of Holden's closure when it withdraws from manufacturing vehicles in Australia.
"It's creating a platform for diversification, for transition of jobs, retention of skills and capabilities," he said."We're fully aware of what the impact will be but obviously, with the State Government's support, by creating this platform we are reducing the effects of the closure of Holden and transitioning into new industries."
The first four environmentally efficient buses will be used in a trial as part of Adelaide's public transport network, and the Government said it would provide the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure with data on how electric and low-carbon emission buses might be used for the longer term across Adelaide.
The bus project has received a $2 million grant under the Northern Economic Plan, which the Government put into place after Holden announced its Australian future.
Interstate demand for low-emission buses
State Manufacturing and Innovation Minister Kyam Maher said dozens of buses would be manufactured for supply to other states.
"The agreement to manufacture an additional 50 low carbon emission diesel buses in northern Adelaide is great news for local automotive suppliers as it creates opportunities across other areas of advanced manufacturing," he said.
"The fact that the first-ever wholly-Australian designed, engineered and manufactured electric buses will roll off the production line later this month right here in northern Adelaide is further evidence of the state's advanced manufacturing expertise."
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| Dozens of workers are already involved in the new bus production venture. (Supplied: SA Government) |
"The alliance is committed to maximising the use of local materials and suppliers across the manufacturing process to provide the most benefit to the northern Adelaide community," he said.The Government expressed hopes a further 50 jobs could be created as the new business grows, and says the venture already is working with about 20 local suppliers.
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